dec 22, 1807 - Embargo Act

Description:

This Act of Congress, inspired by Jefferson, shows Jefferson's willingness to take a risk to fulfill his Republican principles. He wants to keep the U.S. out of a costly war with European powers. He attempts to achieve his goals through economic measures. The legislation forbade the export of all goods from the U.S. and is especially aimed at France and England who were harassing our merchant ships in many ways. Too bad this law did not work to put England and France in the position where they were forced to respect little Uncle Sam.