Which event set a precedent for the rights of free speech and freedom of the press in the colonies? a. the publication of poor richard’s almanac b. the salem witch trials c. the zenger libel trial d. the introduction of public libraries e. the establishment of the frame of government

The correct answer is C) the Zenger libel trial.

The event that set a precedent for the rights of free speech and freedom of the press in the colonies was the Zenger libel trial.

The trial of John Peter Zenger set a precedent for free speech. Zenger was a printer in New York. Coming from Germany, Zenger printed the "New York Weekly Journal," where it exposed the negative conduct and corrupt acts of governor William S. Cosby. The authors of the information were anonymous and Zenger went to prison in 1733 and was accused of attacking the government. A lawyer from Philadelphia named Andrew Hamilton defended him and made and the jury declared him not guilty.