What issue did the Zenger case primarily revolve around?

The Zenger case primarily revolved around the issue of freedom of the press. This landmark legal case took place in 1735 and centered on John Peter Zenger, a German-American printer and journalist in New York City. He was charged with libel for publishing articles critical of the colonial Governor, William Cosby. The trial raised fundamental questions about the rights of publishers, the role of the press in society, and the boundaries of free speech.

The significance of the case lay in the defense that Zenger's lawyers presented, arguing that the truth of the statements made in the articles should be a valid defense against charges of libel. This was a novel argument at the time, as the prevailing legal standards suggested that even true statements could be libelous if they were damaging. The jury ultimately acquitted Zenger, reinforcing the idea that a free press is essential for democratic governance and allowing for public criticism of government officials without fear of legal repercussions.

This case is often viewed as a foundational moment in the development of press freedom in the United States, influencing later legal standards and the broader understanding of First Amendment rights. Thus, it was primarily about the freedom of the press, establishing a precedent that encourages open discourse and accountability in government.