Which act did America implement in attempt to regulate international trade prior to the War of 1812?

The Embargo Act was implemented by the United States in 1807 as a response to ongoing maritime conflicts and impressment of American sailors by British naval forces. This act aimed to restrict all trade between the U.S. and foreign nations, particularly Britain and France, in an effort to pressure them to respect American sovereignty and maritime rights. By halting exports, the U.S. government believed it could economically hurt these nations and compel them to cease their aggressive practices towards American ships.

This measure, though ultimately unpopular and economically damaging to American merchants, was a clear attempt to assert control over international trade and maintain neutrality during a time of heightened tensions leading up to the War of 1812. The act's reach and impact on the American economy led to significant backlash, which demonstrated the complexities of trade regulation during this period.