What was the result of the embargo Jefferson declared against Britain in 1807?
The embargo Jefferson declared against Britain in 1807 had mixed results. The embargo, known as the Embargo Act of 1807, was a response to British and French violations of American neutrality during the Napoleonic Wars. Jefferson believed that by cutting off trade with foreign nations, particularly Britain which was the major trading partner, he could pressure them into respecting American sovereignty and neutral rights.
However, the embargo had significant negative consequences for the American economy. American merchants felt the brunt of the embargo, as they experienced a severe decline in trade and a loss of income. Furthermore, the embargo led to a rise in smuggling, as many Americans went against the law to continue trading with foreign nations. This, in turn, weakened the government's ability to enforce the embargo effectively.
Additionally, the embargo strained relations with New England states, which heavily relied on trade with Britain and were hit hardest by the economic downturn. There were widespread protests and even instances of violence against federal agents who attempted to enforce the embargo.
Ultimately, the embargo did not achieve its intended goals. Instead of pressuring Britain and France into respecting American neutrality, it primarily harmed the American economy and strained domestic relations. In 1809, the embargo was repealed and replaced with the Non-Intercourse Act, which allowed trade with all nations except Britain and France.