The plan developed by the U.S. to help European nations, including Germany, recover economically after World War II is known as the Marshall Plan, officially called the European Recovery Program (ERP). This initiative was announced by Secretary of State George C. Marshall in a speech at Harvard University in June 1947.
The Marshall Plan aimed to provide financial aid to rebuild European economies, stabilize governments, and prevent the spread of communism. It offered significant economic assistance, with around $13 billion allocated between 1948 and 1952. The funds were used to support infrastructure rebuilding, industrial growth, and to promote trade among European countries as well as between Europe and the U.S.
The program was instrumental in revitalizing the European economy, leading to increased production, rising standards of living, and fostering cooperation among European nations. The Marshall Plan is often credited with helping to create the foundation for the eventual European Union and promoting long-term peace and stability in Europe.