What was the aim of the Marshall Plan following World War II?

The aim of the Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was to rebuild and stabilize Western European economies after the devastation of World War II. The plan, proposed by U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall in 1947, was motivated by the need to restore economic health to war-torn nations, which were struggling with severe infrastructural damage, food shortages, and the threat of communist influence.

By providing substantial financial aid to help European nations recover economically, the United States sought to create a stable environment conducive to democracy and prevent the spread of communism in a region that was vulnerable to economic instability. This investment also fostered stronger economic ties between Europe and the United States, ultimately promoting long-term peace and prosperity in the region.

The other options do not align with the primary focus of the Marshall Plan. The intent was not to punish Axis nations, promote wartime industry specifically in the U.S., or to establish military bases in Europe, but rather to facilitate recovery and rebuild economies crucial for the political stability of the region.