Two factors worked against this: due to rising tensions with Great Britain, the US government passed the Embargo Act of 1807, prohibiting trade with Britain (and including the Canadian colonies. While smuggling across the lakes and rivers occurred, the act suppressed trade with Canada, as did the War of 1812 and restrictions afterward. The completion of the Erie Canal in 1824 shifted growth and development to the Great Lakes area, as it opened trade from that area through Central New York, connecting with the Hudson River and New York City. Migrant populations were drawn to the west.
Two factors worked against this: due to rising tensions with Great Britain, the US government passed the Embargo Act of 1807, prohibiting trade with Britain (and including the Canadian colonies. While smuggling across the lakes and rivers occurred, the act suppressed trade with, Canada, as :did the War of 1812 and restrictions afterward. The completion of the Erie Canal in 1824 shifted growth and development to the Gr,eat Lakes area, as it opened trade from that area through Central New York, connecting w!ith the Hudson River and New York City. Migrant populations were drawn to the west.