The Embargo of 1807 is an important event in American history that impacted the country’s economy and diplomacy. As such, it is an essential topic for students to learn about in order to understand the founding and development of the United States.
As teachers, our goal is to engage and educate students on the significance of the Embargo of 1807, and its effects on the country’s economy and foreign policy.
To start, we must provide students with historical background and context. In 1807, the United States was caught in the middle of the Napoleonic Wars between France and Britain. Both countries imposed trade restrictions on the United States, and American merchants were struggling to navigate the conflict. The Embargo Act, signed by President Thomas Jefferson, banned all American ships from leaving port in an effort to protect American neutrality.
It’s important to note that the Embargo Act was a controversial decision. Many Americans were unhappy with the restrictions on trade, fearing that it would harm the economy. Moreover, there were serious economic ramifications due to the embargo, and smuggling became a common practice.
As students learn about the embargo, it’s important to highlight how this event influenced foreign relations. The embargo caused severe strain between the U.S. and European powers, which impacted the early development of American diplomacy. The tension between the U.S. and Europe continued to grow until the War of 1812.
One approach to teaching the Embargo Act is to use primary sources. Encourage students to read original documents, such as letters written during this time period or newspapers articles from the era. This gives students the opportunity to analyze firsthand accounts, and to see how the embargo affected different groups of people in unique ways.
Another effective approach is to use online simulations. There are many online simulations that allow students to experience the embargo firsthand. These simulations allow students to examine trade patterns and government decisions, and to make decisions as leaders in different roles.
