Napoleonic Wars and Neutral Rights Violations

The Napoleonic Wars between Britain and France led to violations of American neutral rights, including the practice of impressment

Chesapeake-Leopard Affair

British Attack on USS Chesapeake

The British attack on the American naval vessel USS Chesapeake in 1807 sparked public outrage and prompted President Jefferson to pursue economic coercion against Britain and France

President Jefferson's Response

President Jefferson advocated for the Embargo Act as a means to pressure Britain and France into respecting American rights

Enactment and Purpose

Enacted in 1807, the Embargo Act aimed to halt all American overseas trade in order to leverage U.S. economic power and compel Britain and France to recognize American neutrality

Economic Impact

Negative Effects on American Economy

The embargo caused severe economic distress within the United States, leading to a drop in exports, unemployment, and discussions of secession

Limited Impact on British and French Economies

The British and French economies were not significantly harmed by the embargo, as they had alternative sources of goods and trade networks to mitigate its effects

Unintended Consequences

The embargo inadvertently provided France with a justification to capture American vessels attempting to bypass the trade restrictions

Precursor to the War of 1812

The Embargo Act is often seen as a precursor to the War of 1812, as it exposed the fragility of the American economy and reduced the nation's diplomatic influence

Continued Efforts at Economic Coercion

President Madison continued to enforce trade restrictions through the Non-Intercourse Act of 1809 in an effort to address ongoing issues with Britain and France

Factors Leading to War

The unresolved issues of maritime rights, British support for Native American resistance, and impressment of American sailors ultimately led to the U.S. declaration of war against Britain in 1812