The rise of the United States to superpower status after World War II can be attributed to a combination of factors, but the most relevant answers in the context of the options provided would be:
a) The performance of the United States military in the war gained the respect of countries around the world.
This is true, as the U.S. military played a critical role in the defeat of the Axis powers and demonstrated significant military capabilities, which solidified its global standing.
b) The foreign superpowers before the war, such as Great Britain and France, were too weak to continue policing the globe.
This is also accurate, as the devastation of WWII left countries like Great Britain and France economically and militarily weakened, creating a power vacuum that the U.S. was positioned to fill.
While options c and d contain elements of truth, they are less critical to the immediate rise to superpower status compared to options a and b.
Overall, the best response reflecting the key reasons for the U.S. rise to superpower status post-WWII would encompass both a and b.