What was the primary purpose of the Marshall Plan?

The primary purpose of the Marshall Plan was to rebuild Europe after World War II. Officially known as the European Recovery Program, it was initiated by the United States in 1948 and aimed at providing substantial economic assistance to Western European countries to help them recover from the devastation of the war. The intent was not only to facilitate the rebuilding of infrastructure and economies but also to stave off potential political instability that could lead to the spread of communism in the region. By revitalizing these economies, the United States sought to create stable conditions that would promote democratic governance and free-market economies, ultimately aligning with its broader geopolitical interests in countering Soviet influence during the early stages of the Cold War. This program was instrumental in the swift recovery of European nations, allowing them to rebuild their industries and reestablish trade ties, thus laying the groundwork for long-term growth and stability in the region.