Imagine that you are a senior advisor to Napoleon. You have been asked to prepare a memo outlining the advantages and disadvantages of disrupting Britain's trade with Europe. Your memo should examine the impact of such a move from the standpoint of Britain, France, and the rest of Europe."
My memo lists the advantages and disadvantages for France.
To: Napoleon Bonaparte
From: Sara, Senior Advisor
Subject: Continental System
The advantages for France would be the limitation of Britain's sytem, and the limitation of Britain's power. The disadvantages for France would be the reduce of its economic system, and the loss of trade from other countries.
Is there anything else I could add in here? I want just a little bit more info, thanks
You need to add explanations:
The advantages for France would be the limitation of Britain's sytem<~~what are those limitations?, and the limitation of Britain's power<~~what are those limitations?.
The disadvantages for France would be the reduction of its economic system<~~what does this mean specifically?, and the loss of trade from other countries<~~this needs detailed explanation, too.
This book looks as if it has information that might help. It's a book, though, not available on the Internet.
Napoleon's Integration of Europe, by Stuart Woolf; Routledge, 1991
This article doesn't seem to be available online unless possibly through your library's subscription to one of the huge research databases, such as EBSCOhost. Ask your reference librarian.
http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract;jsessionid=F3A662CFA6CBED96D8E4BBFB746A1F83.tomcat1?fromPage=online&aid=74939
this is very hard
Dear Napoleon Bonaparte,
In addition to the advantages and disadvantages mentioned in my previous memo regarding the disruption of Britain's trade with Europe, there are a few more points that I would like to add.
Advantages for France:
1. Economic protection: By disrupting Britain's trade, France would have the opportunity to protect its domestic industries from British competition. This could lead to the growth of French industries and the development of a self-sufficient economy.
2. Strengthening allies: The disruption of Britain's trade would likely encourage other European countries to join forces with France against Britain. This could strengthen alliances and create a united front against a common enemy.
3. Encouraging British dissent: A disruption in trade would not only negatively affect the British economy but also potentially lead to internal dissatisfaction among their citizens. This could weaken the British government's hold on power and open possibilities for political instability within the rival nation.
Disadvantages for France:
1. Economic consequences: France heavily relies on trade, and disrupting Britain's commerce would undoubtedly have negative implications for the French economy. It would lead to a decline in foreign investment, reduced revenues from trade, and potentially worsen the economic conditions for French citizens.
2. Retaliation by Britain: Disrupting Britain's trade may provoke retaliation. The British possess a powerful navy and could respond by imposing their own trade restrictions and blockades, thereby creating further economic and political challenges for France.
3. Alienating other European nations: While the disruption may initially encourage other countries to join France against Britain, in the long run, it could potentially alienate some European nations. These countries may have strong trade ties or historical alliances with Britain, and disrupting their trade could strain relations with France.
It is important to carefully consider these advantages and disadvantages when contemplating the implementation of the Continental System. The potential consequences for France, Britain, and the rest of Europe must be weighed in order to make an informed decision.
Best regards,
Sara
Senior Advisor
To further expand your understanding of the advantages and disadvantages for France in disrupting Britain's trade with Europe, you could consider the following points:
Advantages for France:
1. Economic advantage: By disrupting Britain's trade with Europe, France could potentially drive up the demand for its own goods within Europe. With reduced competition from British goods, French industries could gain a larger market share and potentially increase their profits.
2. Weakening the enemy: Disrupting Britain's trade would undermine its economic strength. This could weaken Britain's ability to finance its military endeavors and potentially lead to a decrease in military power, which would be advantageous for France.
3. Leveraging political influence: By controlling trade routes and influencing economic relations in Europe, France could gain political leverage over other European countries. This control could potentially strengthen France's position as a dominant power in Europe.
Disadvantages for France:
1. Economic repercussions: Disrupting Britain's trade would likely lead to retaliation from Britain. This could result in a reduction of trade opportunities for French merchants and potentially disrupt the French economy.
2. Loss of trading partners: By cutting off Britain, France may face resistance from other European countries that have strong economic ties with Britain. These countries may seek alternative partners or retaliate against France, leading to a loss of trade and potential diplomatic tensions.
3. Naval blockade: Disrupting Britain's trade would likely involve implementing a naval blockade to isolate British ports. This would require substantial naval resources and could divert France's attention and resources away from other strategic goals.
By considering these additional factors, you can provide a more comprehensive analysis of the advantages and disadvantages for France in disrupting Britain's trade with Europe in your memo to Napoleon.