AP Euro: Unit 9 - Post-War Europe and the Marshall Plan

Overview

• Post-World War II Europe was devastated, leading to the need for significant rebuilding.
• Global superpowers emerged: Soviet Union (authoritarian communist state) and United States (democratic capitalist state).
• The Cold War was driven by the ideological conflict between communism and democracy.

The State of Europe Post-WWII

• Western European infrastructure and population severely affected.
• Economic instability posed the risk of communism spreading.

Marshall Plan

• Initiated by the United States in 1947 to aid Western Europe's recovery.
• Allocated $13 billion in economic aid, approximately 10% of the U.S. federal budget (1947-1951).
• Strategic move to prevent the spread of communism in Western Europe.

Effects of the Marshall Plan

1. Rapid Economic Recovery

   • Western European cities, roads, and infrastructure were rebuilt.
   • Industrial sector revival: factories began to produce goods needed for reconstruction.
   • By 1950, European industry surpassed pre-war output levels.
   • West Germany's recovery was notable, described as an "economic Miracle."
     • By 1955, West Germany's economic output exceeded pre-war Germany's total output.

2. Increased Consumerism

   • Economic stability led to an increase in consumer goods purchasing.
   • Rise in wages and expansion of the middle class.

Conclusion

• The Marshall Plan was highly effective in jumpstarting Western Europe's economic recovery and preventing the spread of communism.

Additional Resources

• Further review available for Unit Nine.
• AP Euro review pack recommended for exam preparation.