President Thomas Jefferson called for the Embargo Act of 1807 primarily to address increasing conflicts with Britain and France, who were engaged in the Napoleonic Wars. The Act aimed to protect American interests by:
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Protecting American Shipping: Jefferson sought to avoid war and protect American merchant ships from British and French interference, particularly impressment of American sailors and interference with trade.
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Economic Pressure: By imposing a ban on all exports to foreign nations, Jefferson hoped to economically pressure Britain and France to respect American neutrality. He aimed to demonstrate that the U.S. could assert its independence and that economic pain could encourage these nations to change their policies toward American vessels.
Overall, the Embargo Act was an attempt to maintain peace while safeguarding American sovereignty and economic interests.