The purpose of the Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was to provide economic assistance to Western European countries after World War II. Initiated in 1948, the plan aimed to rebuild war-torn economies, stabilize governments, and prevent the spread of communism by promoting economic cooperation and development. The U.S. provided over $13 billion to support recovery efforts, which helped industries, infrastructure, and agriculture. The Marshall Plan not only facilitated recovery but also strengthened political alliances and laid the groundwork for European integration, eventually leading to the establishment of the European Union.