The Diplomatic Struggle of the United States Against Britain in Defending Maritime Commerce During the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815)

Abstract

During the wars waged by Napoleon in Europe (1803-1815), Britain sought to prevent external resources from reaching France by obstructing neutral ships-including American vessels-from trading with its adversary. This British policy harmed U.S. foreign commerce and infringed upon American national honor. To protect the trade activities of its merchant fleet, the United States launched a diplomatic struggle against Great Britain. The goal of this struggle was not only to secure freedom of trade on the high seas but also to safeguard America’s interests and national dignity in the international arena. As a result, the United States gradually affirmed the principle of freedom of the seas as a new actor in the global community.