Question
14. Why was Thomas Jefferson in favor of the Embargo Act?
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Thomas Jefferson supported the Embargo Act of 1807 primarily as a response to ongoing conflicts and violations of American neutrality during the Napoleonic Wars, particularly due to British and French interference with U.S. shipping. The Act aimed to prohibit American ships from trading with foreign nations, thereby trying to protect American interests and assert the United States' sovereignty.
Jefferson believed that the Embargo would avoid war and maintain peace while encouraging the development of American manufacturing, reducing dependency on foreign goods. He hoped that by cutting off trade with Britain, the British would be compelled to respect American rights and maritime interests. However, ultimately the act had significant negative economic repercussions for the U.S., leading to widespread discontent and eventually its repeal in 1809.
Jefferson believed that the Embargo would avoid war and maintain peace while encouraging the development of American manufacturing, reducing dependency on foreign goods. He hoped that by cutting off trade with Britain, the British would be compelled to respect American rights and maritime interests. However, ultimately the act had significant negative economic repercussions for the U.S., leading to widespread discontent and eventually its repeal in 1809.