1776 American Revolution begins. Salem's trade suffers during the revolution, but many merchants use their ships as privateers 1784 Elias Hasket Derby's Grand Turk opens China for trade with Salem. 1780's to early 1800's Trade with China, India, and the Spice Islands flourishes. Salem is the center of world commerce. 1807 President Jefferson's Embargo Act declares that no ship can sail from a U.S. harbor to a foreign port.
Embargo cripples Salem's economy.
Embargo is lifted and ships from Salem resume trade with the East . 1812 War of 1812. Many Salem ships do not survive the conflict, and Salem never regains its commercial power.