 The effect of this trade policy upon American shipping was detrimental.After the passage of the U.S. Constitution in 1789 the congress was petitioned for relief.On June 5, 1789, a petition from the tradesmen and manufacturers of Boston was sent to the Congress which stated "that the great decrease of American manufactures, and almost total stagnation of American ship-building, urge us to apply to the sovereign Legislature of these States for their assistance to promote these important branches, so essential to our national wealth and prosperity.