Download or read book Colonial and Early American Journalism written by Patrice Sherman and published by Cavendish Square Publishing, LLC. This book was released on 2018-12-15 with total page 114 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: From its earliest days, the press played a pivotal role in American politics and civic life. The trial of printer John Peter Zenger in 1735 established the principle of the free press, and publishers throughout the colonies quickly embraced the concept. The controversy over independence was hotly debated in newspapers. Through letters and debates, the press helped shape the idea of a uniquely American identity. This volume demonstrates how freedom of the press is part of American heritage from colonial times and how it remains essential to democracy to this day.