Justice James Kent's People v. Croswell papers

1804-1805

This collection is comprised of Justice James Kent's records concerning the case The People of the State of New York v. Harry Croswell (1804). Journalist Harry Croswell was charged for criminal libel for his statements against President Thomas Jefferson. The papers include summaries of arguments from both sides, notably a speech by Alexander Hamilton including his 15 proposals in favor of Croswell and the liberty of the press. Also present are citations of foreign law, a brief history of the case, Kent's opinion in favor of a new trial, and Kent's objections to a libel bill in the New York legislature. Of interest is a page of Alexander Hamilton's notes on the case