What act did Jefferson issue in 1807 that banned all U.S. trade with foreign nations?

The Embargo Act of 1807 was a significant piece of legislation enacted by President Thomas Jefferson that prohibited all U.S. trade with foreign nations. The primary motivation behind this act was to avoid entanglement in the ongoing conflict between Britain and France, particularly the impressment of American sailors and the disruption of American shipping. By banning foreign trade, Jefferson aimed to pressure Britain and France to respect American neutrality and maritime rights.

The act had serious repercussions for the American economy, leading to widespread discontent among merchants and the shipping industry, as it resulted in substantial economic downturns. Despite its intentions to protect U.S. interests, the Embargo Act is often viewed as a failure, leading to its repeal in 1809.

In contrast to the Embargo Act, the Non-Intercourse Act aimed to allow trade with all nations except Britain and France. The Navigation Acts were a series of laws that regulated colonial commerce and trade, and the Declaratory Act was related to British authority over the colonies post-Stamp Act.