Lot
312 
(1807 Embargo Act) 1808 (Jan. 28) Stonehouse, England to Boston, Mass., folded letter endorsed "Pr. Packet" and manuscript "2/8" 2s8d rating, additional manuscript "1d" rating at top left; some soiling, Fine, This is reported as the last mail delivery by Packet before the imposition of the embargo. Estimate $200 - 300.
The Embargo Act of 1807 was a general Embargo that made illegal any and all exports from the United States. It was sponsored by President Thomas Jefferson and enacted by Congress. The goal was to force Britain and France to respect American rights during the Napoleonic Wars. The U.S. wanted to remain neutral and trade with both sides, but neither side wanted the other to have the American supplies. The American goal was to use economic coercion to avoid war, and punish Britain due to the thousands of impressed American seamen. The policy was highly unpopular with shipping interests, and historians have judged it a failure. It was repealed as Jefferson left office in 1809.