Why Was John Peter Zenger's Acquittal Significant

question 14

Multiple Choice

Why was John Peter Zenger's acquittal significant?

• A) It set important legal precedents that established truth as a defense against a charge of libel and encouraged broader political discussion.
• B) It weakened the authority of a governor to hold a defendant without formal charge.
• C) It created the presumption that someone accused of a crime is innocent until proven otherwise.
• D) It destroyed the last vestiges of a legal system without jury trials.
• E) It guaranteed that the poor would have legal counsel.

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Definitions:

Litigants

Individuals, companies, or parties involved in a lawsuit either as plaintiffs or defendants.

Racketeering Activity

An illegal activity performed as part of an organized crime operation.

Professional's Conduct

The manner in which professionals are expected to behave, typically guided by ethical rules and standards of their profession.

Actual Damages

Financial compensation awarded to a plaintiff in a lawsuit for actual losses or harm suffered due to the defendant's actions.