How did the Smoot hawly tariff affect the American economy?

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff, enacted in 1930, significantly raised tariffs on imported goods, aiming to protect American industries during the Great Depression. However, it led to retaliatory tariffs from other countries, which exacerbated international trade tensions and caused a decline in global trade. This further deepened the economic downturn in the U.S. and contributed to worsening unemployment and economic stagnation. Ultimately, the tariff is widely criticized for hindering recovery efforts during a critical period in American history.