The Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was pivotal in revitalizing Western Europe's economy after World War II. By injecting over $13 billion into the region from 1948 to 1952, it provided essential financial aid for reconstruction, infrastructure development, and industrial revival. This aid helped to stabilize economies, curb the spread of communism, and foster European integration. The plan also established a precedent for American involvement in European affairs and set the stage for future cooperation among Western nations, significantly contributing to the long-term prosperity and political alignment within the region.