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Enforcement of the Embargo Act

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026
Thomas Jefferson
April 19, 1808

Summary

Directed enforcement measures for the Embargo Act of 1807, which prohibited American ships from trading in foreign ports. The embargo was intended to pressure Britain and France during the Napoleonic Wars but severely damaged the American economy.

Topics

tradeembargoforeign policyNapoleonic Wars

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