What was the purpose of the continental system? Did it succeed or fail? 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.
The purpose of the continental system was to stop trade from European ports to Britain. The continental system failed because the British increased their global trade. I really need help with my memo, I am having difficulties starting it, your help will be appreciated, thanks.
Here's the post you made last night about the audience for this memo. Sorry, I didn't see it before.
"Oh, I am so sorry, I messed up on that, it was supposed to say: 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."
I'd start it this way:
To: Napoleon Bonaparte
From: Sara, Senior Advisor
Subject: Continental System
1. Advantage for Britain:
None
Disadvantages for Britain:
Loses money because of trade embargo from Europe
thank you so much, I'll add more, and post it on here for you to check:-)
*will not be able to trade with other countries
*Won't be in debt anymore
As a senior advisor to Napoleon, preparing a memo outlining the advantages and disadvantages of disrupting Britain's trade with Europe is an important task. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can approach writing your memo:
1. Introduction:
Begin your memo by providing a brief overview of the purpose of the continental system – that it was designed to halt trade between European ports and Britain. Set the context by explaining the significance of disrupting Britain's trade and outline the main points you will discuss in the memo.
2. Advantages of disrupting Britain's trade:
a. Economic advantage for France and the rest of Europe: Analyze how disrupting Britain's trade could provide economic benefits to France and other European countries. Highlight that by preventing British goods from entering European markets, domestic industries would have a chance to grow and prosper, leading to increased employment and economic growth.
b. Political advantage for France: Explain how disrupting Britain's trade could weaken its political position. Discuss the advantage of reducing British influence in Europe by isolating them economically. Emphasize that a weakened Britain would provide opportunities for France to enhance its political power and influence in the region.
c. Strengthening the continental system: Emphasize that by successfully disrupting Britain's trade, the continental system would be reinforced and its authority over European trade would be solidified. This, in turn, would consolidate Napoleon's vision of a united Europe and ensure loyalty from continental allies.
3. Disadvantages of disrupting Britain's trade:
a. Negative economic consequences for Britain: Highlight the potential negative impact on the British economy if its trade with Europe is disrupted. Discuss how this could result in reduced export opportunities, unemployment, and economic recession.
b. Retaliation and increased smuggling: Address the possibility of Britain retaliating by implementing its own trade restrictions or engaging in smuggling activities. Analyze the potential consequences of such actions and consider the impact they could have on the success of the continental system.
c. Challenges in enforcing the continental system: Acknowledge the difficulties in effectively enforcing the continental system. Focus on potential gaps in surveillance, limited resources, and the existence of external factors such as neutral countries aiding British trade.
4. Conclusion:
Summarize your key points, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of disrupting Britain's trade with Europe. Conclude by providing a balanced assessment, considering both the potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing such a move. Suggest that, although there are advantages, careful consideration should be given to the potential risks and long-term consequences.
Remember to support your analysis with historical evidence and specific examples throughout the memo. Good luck with your memo, and I hope this guidance helps you get started!