The main criticism of the articles of confederation was that they failed to

Govern effectively. they couldn't tax anything so they couldn't raise revenue and without revenue they couldn't pay anyone to help govern. 

The main criticism was that they gave the central government no power, meaning:      
-Congress could not collect taxes
-Congress could not regulate foreign or interstate commerce
-The executive branch did not exist (no checks and balances)

The embargo act of 1807  was a law passed by the united state congress and signed by president thomas jefferson on december 22,  1807. it prohibited american ships from trading in all foreign ports. in 1806, france passed a law that prohibited trade between neutral parties, like the u.s., and britain.

Could you give me some more details so i can you?