The event that was a direct attempt to prevent the spread of communism into Western Europe was the implementation of the Marshall Plan in 1948. The United States established this economic aid program to rebuild war-torn European economies post-World War II. By providing financial support and resources, the U.S. aimed to stabilize these nations and promote capitalist democracies, thus countering communist expansion. The Marshall Plan not only helped in economic recovery but also forged strong political alliances and enhanced U.S. influence in Western Europe, reinforcing the divide that characterized the Cold War era.