Embargo Act of 1807

The Embargo Act of 1807 was a U.S. law that banned American ships from trading with foreign countries, especially Britain and France. It was enacted to pressure these nations to respect American neutrality during their ongoing conflicts. However, instead of influencing foreign policies, it hurt the U.S. economy by restricting exports and damaging merchants and farmers. The act was heavily unpopular and was eventually repealed in 1809, replaced by less restrictive trade measures. It aimed to protect American interests but led to economic hardship and increased smuggling.