The Continental System was an economic blockade established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 during the Napoleonic Wars. Its main goal was to weaken Great Britain by prohibiting European nations from trading with the British. This strategy aimed to cripple the British economy and force them to negotiate peace. However, the Continental System faced significant challenges. Many countries, including Russia and Spain, resisted the restrictions, leading to smuggling and conflict. Ultimately, the system failed to achieve its objectives and contributed to the decline of Napoleon's power in Europe.