I'm doing the 5 W's (Who, What, When, Why, Where) and How for the Embargo Act but I'm having trouble finds the How part.
I assume you mean the Embargo Act of 1807. How in terms of how it was enacted or how it was effective?
To understand the "How" part of the Embargo Act, you need to examine the steps and actions involved in its implementation. Here is a breakdown of how the Embargo Act was carried out:
1. Legislation: The Embargo Act was signed into law by President Thomas Jefferson on December 22, 1807. The act aimed to restrict trade between the United States and foreign nations, specifically targeting Britain and France during the Napoleonic Wars.
2. Prohibition on Foreign Trade: The act prohibited all American ships from trading with foreign countries. This included exports and imports to both Britain and France, as well as their colonies and allies. Ships were barred from leaving American ports to engage in trade.
3. Enforcement: The act required the active participation of government officials, especially customs agents and naval officers. They were responsible for enforcing the embargo and inspecting ships to ensure compliance. Any ships found violating the embargo were subject to seizure and confiscation.
4. Effect on Economy: The Embargo Act had a significant impact on the American economy. By restricting trade, it aimed to force Britain and France to change their policies towards neutral American vessels. However, it ended up causing economic hardships for many Americans, particularly those engaged in maritime industries, leading to widespread discontent.
5. Smuggling and Evasion: As a result of the act's unpopularity and the economic consequences it imposed, widespread smuggling and evasion of the embargo occurred. American merchants resorted to illicit means to continue trading with Britain and France, often using smaller vessels to avoid detection by authorities.
6. Repeal: Due to the negative impact on the economy and the growing discontent among Americans, the Embargo Act was repealed on March 1, 1809, shortly before the end of Thomas Jefferson's presidency. It was replaced by the Non-Intercourse Act, which sought to reopen trade but maintained restrictions on Britain and France.
To understand the "How" part fully, it is essential to dive deeper by conducting further research and examining primary sources such as historical documents, government records, and scholarly analyses of the Embargo Act. By doing so, you will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the specific mechanisms and intricacies involved in implementing and navigating the embargo.