Blockade of British trade: The Continental System aimed to cripple the British economy by denying it access to continental European markets. By controlling the ports and trade routes on the European mainland, France sought to prevent the import of British goods and encourage the purchase of French and allied products instead.
Self-sufficiency: Napoleon wanted to reduce France's dependence on British goods and promote economic self-sufficiency within the French Empire and its allies. By encouraging domestic industries and reducing imports, France aimed to strengthen its economy and become less vulnerable to British trade policies.
Weaken British influence: By enforcing the Continental System, Napoleon intended to weaken the British political and economic influence in Europe. He believed that by cutting off British trade with the continent, Britain would lose its primary source of wealth and power.
Economic benefits: The system provided an opportunity for France and its allies to increase their exports to continental markets and expand their economic influence in Europe. By replacing British goods, French industries and those of allied nations could gain a larger share of the market and boost economic growth.
Isolation of Britain: The Continental System aimed to isolate Britain from the rest of Europe and reduce its ability to form alliances or gain support from other countries. By discouraging trade with Britain, Napoleon hoped to weaken Britain's international position and ultimately force it to accept French terms in a peace settlement.
The Continental System had significant economic consequences for both France and the rest of Europe. It disrupted trade and commerce, caused shortages of essential goods, and fueled widespread smuggling. Ultimately, the system proved unsustainable and was eventually abandoned after Napoleon's defeat in 1814.