5. The Continental System (1806-1814)
In 1806, Napoleon Bonaparte implemented the Continental System, a blockade aimed at crippling Britain’s economy by prohibiting European nations under French influence from trading with Britain. This embargo led to economic hardships across Europe, as essential goods became scarce and prices soared. The blockade’s enforcement was inconsistent, with widespread smuggling undermining its effectiveness. Ultimately, the Continental System failed to achieve its objectives and contributed to Napoleon’s downfall (britannica.com).
