What reason did Jefferson give

Question

for urging passage of the
Embargo Act?
to protect American
traders
to avoid war over seized
ships
to increase the power of
the Republican Party
to decrease the power
and influence of New
England merchants

Answer 1

Thomas Jefferson urged the passage of the Embargo Act primarily to avoid war over seized ships. The act was intended to protect American interests by prohibiting American ships from trading with foreign nations, particularly in response to British and French interference with American merchant vessels during the Napoleonic Wars. Jefferson believed that this action would pressure Britain and France to respect American neutrality and maritime rights without resorting to armed conflict.