21 November 1806
The Continental System

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Under the Berlin Decree, Napoleon announces the seizure of all British goods on French territory, the closure of all ports to British ships or others trading with Britain and the imprisonment of British citizens. But the 'Continental System' – as his attempt to halt all trade between Britain and Europe is known – backfires. The British retaliate with a blockade of all European shipping, and British naval superiority means that France suffers more than its enemy. Although the British people are hit by food shortages, high prices and increased taxation (including the new income tax), Britain's gross national product actually increases every year during the Napoleonic era. Napoleon is also drawn into the Peninsular War when he tries to extend the Continental System to Spain.

'The sea is the property of all nations, it spreads over three-fourths of Europe, and establishes a tie between people of different countries.' Napoleon

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