Final answer:
The embargo hurt the American economy, businesses, and citizens by reducing access to affordable goods and products, hindering agricultural exports, and causing financial losses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The embargo, implemented as an attempt to hurt Britain and France by cutting off their trade, backfired and severely impacted the American economy, businesses, and citizens. The embargo reduced access to affordable goods and products, leading to a decline in American business activity by 75% from 1808 to 1809. American farmers suffered as they couldn't sell their goods overseas, and seaport cities saw an increase in unemployment and bankruptcies.This had a detrimental effect on the economy, hindering agricultural exports and causing financial losses. It did not boost domestic manufacturing and production as the resources and markets were restricted due to the embargo. Additionally, the embargo did not strengthen international trade relations; instead, it strained relations with other countries.