John Peter Zenger, a German immigrant and printer, was charged with seditious libel after publishing criticisms of Governor William Cosby in the New York Weekly Journal. Zenger's articles accused Cosby of corruption, favoritism, and abuse of power, issues that resonated with the public. His arrest in 1734 was partly a response to the growing dissatisfaction with British governance and the royal governors in the American colonies, who were often seen as detached from local concerns. The trial began in 1735 and became a pivotal moment for press freedom, as Zenger’s defense attorney, Andrew Hamilton, argued that the publications were, in fact, true. This appeal to truth not only aimed to clear Zenger's name but also challenged the existing laws suppressing free expression in the colonies.

The jury ultimately sided with Zenger, establishing a precedent that the press could not be punished for publishing truthful statements. This case is significant not only for its immediate implications but also for laying groundwork for the broader principles of free speech and the freedom of the press in the United States. The trial highlighted the growing desire for democratic principles and accountability from colonial leaders, as well as the need for a reckoning with the authoritarian measures imposed by British authorities. Zenger's acquittal represented a triumph for civil liberties and a step toward a more open political discourse.