Continental System and the War against Britain Flashcards
What was issued on the 21st November 1806?
Berlin Decree - brought into effect a large-scale embargo against British trade.
What caused the embargo long term?
Britain’s continued hostility to Napoleon, pivotal in the formation of coalitions to remove him and the previous French Republic.
The inability to France to invade Britain following the Battle of Trafalgar of October of 1805
What was a short term cause for the embargo?
As a response to the naval blockade of the French coasts enacted by the British government on 16 May 1806.
When did the embargo end?
11th April 1814 after Napoleons first abdication.
What did the decree forbid?
The import of British goods into any European countries allied with or dependent upon France - even mail was cut.
How much did British exports to Europe drop by?
Dropped from 55% to 25% between 1802 and 1806 but caused little economic damage.
What made Napoleon invade Spain in 1808?
Realized that extensive trade was going through Spain
What did Napoleon call Spain?
“Spanish ulcer”.
How did the embargo effect Portugal?
Was the first to widely defy the trade with Britain - leading to War in the Iberian Peninsula, especially in Portugal and Peninsula war.
How did the embargo effect Sweden?
Sweden, Britain’s ally in the Third Coalition, refused to comply with French demands and was attacked by Russia in February 1808.
How did the embargo effect France?
Shipbuilding, and its trades such as rope-making, declined, as did many other industries that relied on overseas markets, such as the linen industries.
What happened to the price of staple foods?
Rose in most of continental Europe.
What was the St. Cloud Decree and when was it?
July 1810 opened the southwest of France and the Spanish frontier to limited British trade, and reopened French trade to the United States.
What did it lead to?
International smuggling.
Why were Britain fearful of France?
We feared he might invade. We feared a revolution here, with its own version of the Terror.