Why did some critics oppose the Marshall Plan?

The opposition to the Marshall Plan stemmed from a combination of concerns, making the choice of "all of the above" the most accurate. Critics who believed it would create a rival empire were apprehensive that the U.S. would gain excessive influence over European countries, similar to how the Soviet Union was establishing its own sphere of influence. This concern reflected a fear of a divided Europe along ideological lines, which could intensify tensions during the Cold War.

Additionally, critics who thought the plan was too expensive pointed to its substantial financial commitment, which required significant U.S. investment in the recovery of European economies. They questioned whether the American public would support such funding, especially when domestic issues were pressing.

Finally, some felt that the plan favored capitalist countries, arguing that it primarily benefited nations that embraced capitalist principles while potentially neglecting those with socialist systems. This perspective raised concerns about equity in international relations and the potential for exacerbating divides between different economic systems.

In summary, the validity of the Marshall Plan faced criticism from multiple angles, all of which contributed to a broader skepticism about its implications for international relations and economic stability in the post-war period.