c) Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, enacted the Embargo Act of 1807 in an effort to avoid war and assert American neutrality. This act halted all trade with foreign nations, a bold move aimed at protecting American interests and sovereignty. However, the embargo had widespread economic repercussions, particularly harming American merchants and farmers. Jefferson’s policy reflected the complexities of international relations and the challenges of maintaining neutrality during a period of global conflict. The Embargo Act, while controversial, highlighted Jefferson’s commitment to diplomatic solutions and his vision for an independent American economy.