The primary aim of the Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was to aid in the economic recovery of European nations after World War II. Initiated in 1948, it provided over $12 billion (equivalent to approximately $130 billion today) in financial assistance to help rebuild war-torn economies, stabilize governments, and prevent the spread of communism. The plan significantly contributed to the economic resurgence of Western Europe and fostered stronger ties between the U.S. and European nations.