After World War II, Europe faced significant challenges as countries worked to rebuild their economies and societies. Many cities were in ruins, and millions of people were displaced. The Marshall Plan was introduced by the United States to provide financial aid to help European nations recover and prevent the spread of communism. The post-war period also saw the establishment of new political structures, including the formation of the European Economic Community in 1957, which aimed to promote economic cooperation. Additionally, the division of Europe into Eastern and Western blocs during the Cold War shaped international relations for decades.