Question

What reason did Jefferson give for urging passage of the Embargo act?
To decrease the power and influence of New England merchants

Answer 1

Jefferson argued that the Embargo Act would protect American sovereignty and reduce dependence on foreign trade. He believed that it would weaken Britain and France, who were at war and restricting American trade, and would force them to respect American neutrality. Jefferson also hoped that the act would encourage domestic manufacturing and self-sufficiency. However, it ended up being highly unpopular, devastating American merchants and leading to economic hardships.