"in considering the requirements for the rehabilitation of europe the physical loss of life, the visible destruction of cities, factories, mines, and railroads was correctly estimated, but it has become obvious during recent months that this visible destruction was probably less serious than the dislocation of the entire fabric of european economy…. aside from the demoralizing effect on the world at large and the possibilities of disturbances arising as a result of the desperation of the people concerned, the consequences to the economy of the united states should be apparent to all. it is logical that the united states should do whatever it is able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health in the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace." - excerpt from the marshall plan (1948)

which statement best describes the rationale behind giving large amounts of financial aid to areas like europe and later latin america?

a) the united states felt if europe was financially stable then communism would be less likely to spread.

b) the united states wanted europe to be in debt to them so they could better control the countries politically.

c) the united states feared that if europe did not recover financially quickly then world war iii might break out.

d) the united states feared that if europe could not pay back its’ war debts to the soviet union then they would be occupied by the soviets.