John Peter Zenger's Fight For Freedom

It is a common misconception that humans as a whole have certain rights simply because they are born with them. Many believe they are free to exercise these rights unhindered because it is their right to do so. It is important to recognize this fallacy, because living under the assumption that we have rights just for being born is how they slowly get taken away. The truth is, that the current rights of United States citizens exist because they were fought for, and they must continue to be fought for or they will be taken. We study history so we don’t forget that. An example of this fight for freedom is exemplified by the case of John Peter Zenger. His contribution was that the press became free to print truthful allegations to those …show more content…
He knew they were risky, and he did not even write them. He kept the authors names hidden at all times, throughout his jailing and throughout his trial. So, why print the stories? Well, he likely sold more newspapers at that time than ever before. A scandalous story about the governor is sure to catch many people 's attention. However, going to jail probably would not be worth the money. Zenger likely believed in something more. He was an immigrant who traveled thousands of miles for a better experience. He was a fighter who was able to make his way to printer from nothing. The story to him became about freedom and liberty. An unelected governor was trying his hardest to quell the voice of the people. Zenger, a member of the press, dedicated his life to allowing the people to be heard. Zenger did what he believed his was right, and if that meant being jailed by a rigged system, then so be it. Zenger, however, did not plan on going …show more content…
It was not the easy decision, and it could have gone wrong. He could have been thrown in jail, his wife could have been thrown in jail. He could have lost the case and nothing would have happened. However, morally, even if everything that could have gone wrong did, he made the right decision. He fought to make thee colonies a better place. Many would have not had the commitment he did, and would have probably given up at some point, so it is lucky he was the one who decided to fight on behalf of the people. Luckily, everything did turn out alright. He was able to make change, and that is why almost three-hundred years an immigrant who became a small publisher is still being talked about. You never if the decision you made is going to turn out alright, but sometimes you just have to do what you think is