# Continental System launched (1806)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1806-continental-system-launched
Location: Europe

Napoleon attempted to isolate Britain economically by closing European ports to British trade. Within the broader Consulate & Napoleonic Empire period, Napoleon consolidated many revolutionary reforms while concentrating power, building an empire and waging continental war. French institutions and armies reshaped Europe before military defeat restored the Bourbons. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Napoleon I (Emperor of the French). Continental System launched mattered because it changed material life, state capacity, economic networks or France’s ability to project power. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Continental System launched mattered because it changed material life, state capacity, economic networks or France’s ability to project power.

Ruler at the time: [Napoleon I](https://history-france.com/rulers/napoleon-i-1804)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Continental System launched](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Continental+System+launched&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Continental System launched](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Continental+System+launched)
- [Vie-publique — French institutions and history](https://www.vie-publique.fr/)