What was the main goal of the Marshall Plan after World War II?

The main goal of the Marshall Plan was to rebuild European economies after the devastation caused by World War II. Officially known as the European Recovery Program, it was initiated in 1948 and aimed to provide substantial financial assistance to help European countries recover and stabilize their economies. The underlying belief was that economic stability would reduce the appeal of communism, prevent the spread of Soviet influence, and promote political stability in Western Europe.

By providing aid, the United States sought to facilitate reconstruction, encourage economic cooperation among European nations, and ultimately integrate them more closely with the U.S. economy. This effort included funding for infrastructure restoration, industry revitalization, and agricultural production increases, which were all crucial for overall economic recovery. The successful implementation of the Marshall Plan contributed significantly to the rapid recovery of Western Europe and helped lay the groundwork for lasting economic and political partnerships.