What legal case is known for establishing that freedom of the press includes truth as a defense against libel?

The Case of John Peter Zenger is significant because it established the principle that truth is a valid defense against charges of libel. In 1735, Zenger, a New York printer, was charged with libel for publishing articles that criticized the colonial governor. His defense attorney, Andrew Hamilton, argued that the statements made in the newspaper were true, thus asserting that a free press must be able to report the truth without fear of legal repercussions. This case laid the groundwork for the importance of press freedom in the context of democratic values and legal rights in the United States, ultimately influencing the First Amendment of the Constitution.

While Andrew Hamilton played a crucial role in the defense, it was Zenger's case that directly addressed and defined the role of truth in the context of libel laws, establishing a legal precedent that remains relevant in discussions about journalistic integrity and freedom of expression today.