USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -At Jefferson’s request the two houses of Congress considered and passed the Embargo Act quickly in December 1807. All U.S. ports were closed to export shipping in either U.S. or foreign vessels, and restrictions were placed on imports from Great Britain.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Embargo Act of 1807 was a law passed by the United State Congress and signed by President Thomas Jefferson on December 22, 1807. It prohibited American ships from trading in all foreign ports.

Detailed explanation-3: -Economically, the embargo devastated American shipping exports and cost the American economy about 8 percent in decreased gross national product in 1807. With the embargo in place, American exports declined by 75%, and imports declined by 50%-the act did not completely eliminate trade and domestic partners.

Detailed explanation-4: -After the Chesapeake Affair in June 1807, pitting the British warship Leopard against the American frigate Chesapeake, President Thomas Jefferson faced a decision regarding the situation at hand. Ultimately, he chose an economic option to assert American rights: The Embargo Act of 1807.

Detailed explanation-5: -Why did the Embargo Act of 1807 divide the American People? Outraged by the attach on Chesapeake, Americans called for actions agains the British. The Embargo Act was alternative to war. It ended up being ineffective because the British traded elsewhere.