Part 8/13:
The post-war United States was intent on building a liberal world order predicated on economic interdependence, democracy, and the promotion of free trade. This was exemplified by initiatives like the Marshall Plan, designed not only to rebuild devastated nations but also to foster economic stability and prevent the rise of communism. Countries like West Germany and Japan benefited substantially from this approach, becoming allies in the Western coalition.
Crucially, this order was also maintained through NATO, which served to collectively deter aggression from external enemies like the Soviet Union. For Western nations, sharing economic benefits and mutual alliances created a sense of security that made territorial conquest less appealing.