Thomas Jefferson and James Madison sought to use trade as a weapon against Britain and France by implementing economic measures that aimed to restrict their influence and compel them to respect American neutrality. Jefferson's Embargo Act of 1807 prohibited American ships from trading with both nations, intending to pressure them to cease their maritime practices that violated American rights. Madison, facing continued British aggression, supported the Non-Intercourse Act, which reopened trade with all nations except Britain and France, attempting to leverage economic ties to achieve diplomatic goals. Both leaders believed that restricting trade would ultimately force these countries to acknowledge and respect American sovereignty.
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