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

The primary purpose of the Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was to provide economic assistance to help rebuild European economies after the devastation of World War II. Initiated in 1948, the plan aimed to restore the economic stability of war-torn countries, promote recovery, and prevent the spread of communism by fostering a prosperous and democratic Europe.

By offering substantial financial aid and resources, the United States sought to facilitate the reconstruction of infrastructure, revive industries, and stimulate trade. This was crucial not only for the affected nations but also for the wider stability of Europe, which was deemed vital for American interests during the early stages of the Cold War. The overall objective was to strengthen economies to reduce the appeal of communist ideologies that thrived in impoverished conditions.

While the other choices mentioned aspects of post-war policy, they do not accurately encapsulate the main focus of the Marshall Plan. Military support or the establishment of NATO came later and were part of broader strategies to contain communism, but the direct intention of the Marshall Plan was fundamentally about economic recovery.