What year was the Marshall Plan officially enacted?

The Marshall Plan, officially known as the European Recovery Program, was enacted in 1948, but its proposal and initial discussions began in 1947. The plan was developed by U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall to aid Europe's recovery following the devastation of World War II. By offering financial assistance to rebuild European economies, the United States aimed to prevent the spread of Soviet communism and promote political stability. In 1947, the plan was articulated when Marshall announced it at Harvard University, leading to the formal legislation in 1948 to distribute funds over several years. Understanding this timeframe is crucial for recognizing the geopolitical strategies employed by the U.S. during the post-war period and the importance of the plan in shaping European recovery and integration.