The Embargo Act
Definition
The Embargo Act was a law passed by the U.S. Congress in 1807 during Thomas Jefferson's presidency, prohibiting American ships from trading with foreign countries. It was an attempt to avoid war and protect American interests, but it ended up hurting the U.S. economy more than it did its intended targets.
Analogy
Think of the Embargo Act like a self-imposed time-out that a kid might take when they're being bullied. Instead of fighting back (going to war), they decide not to play at all (trade). But this doesn't really hurt the bullies; instead, it leaves the kid bored and without anyone to play with (hurting their own economy).
Related terms
Non-Intercourse Act: This act replaced the Embargo Act in 1809, reopening trade with all nations except Britain and France.
War Hawks: These were members of Congress who put pressure on President James Madison to declare war against Britain in 1812.
Jeffersonian Republicans: This political party supported states' rights and agrarianism; they were largely responsible for passing the Embargo Act.
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