Question

Why did Jefferson have Congress pass the Embargo Act of 1807? What was its purpose and what effect did it have on America's economy and politics?

Answer 1

Jefferson passed the Embargo Act of 1807 to avoid war and pressure Britain and France economically, but it devastated the U.S. economy and led to political backlash against his administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Thomas Jefferson had Congress pass the Embargo Act of 1807 with the intention to avoid war and use economic measures to stop Great Britain and France from harassing and seizing American shipping through impressment of sailors and violating U.S. neutrality. However, the act had the unintended consequence of causing a severe economic downturn in the United States. American merchants were unable to sell their goods abroad, leading to widespread economic hardship, including a sharp increase in unemployment and bankruptcies in U.S. seaport cities. This resulted in a 75 percent decline in American business activity from 1808 to 1809. Politically, the Embargo Act led to a resurgence of the Federalist Party and contributed to the loss of public support for Jefferson and his Republican Party, ultimately resulting in the Act's repeal in 1809.