History glossary
the Continental System
Napoleon's continent-wide attempt to block British trade after 1806.
- Category
- Economic warfare
- Region
- Europe
- Date range
- 1806-1814
What it means
The Continental System was Napoleon's economic campaign against Britain, launched through decrees beginning in 1806. It tried to close European ports and markets to British goods, but enforcement was uneven, smuggling spread, and the policy strained France's allies and occupied territories.
