The central idea behind the Marshall Plan for European recovery, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was to provide economic assistance to Western European countries following World War II. Proposed by U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall in 1947, the plan aimed to facilitate the rebuilding of war-torn nations and prevent the spread of communism by promoting economic stability and prosperity. With over $12 billion allocated (equivalent to around $130 billion today), the Marshall Plan financed infrastructure projects and boosted industries, fostering cooperation among European nations. This initiative not only helped revive economies but also strengthened political alliances, laying the groundwork for future European integration.