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

The primary goal of the Marshall Plan, formally known as the European Recovery Program, was to aid in the economic recovery of European countries after the devastation of World War II. Launched in 1948, this initiative provided substantial financial support to help rebuild war-torn economies, restore infrastructure, and stabilize governments, thereby reducing the risk of political instability and the spread of communism. The Plan aimed to foster economic cooperation among European nations and was essential in revitalizing economies, which ultimately contributed to lasting peace and prosperity in the region.

This focus on economic recovery directly facilitated the reconstruction of industries, agriculture, and trade, laying the groundwork for long-term European integration. In contrast, the other options touch on either military or political factors that were not the primary objectives of the Marshall Plan. While the plan did incidentally promote democracy and stability, its core mission centered unequivocally on economic recovery.