The Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) was a financial rescue plan initiated by the U.S. government in 2008 during the financial crisis. Its primary goal was to stabilize the economy by purchasing distressed assets, particularly from banks and financial institutions, to restore confidence in the financial system. TARP allocated $700 billion to help banks, automakers, and other companies facing severe financial difficulties. By providing these funds, the program aimed to prevent further economic collapse and protect jobs, ultimately leading to a recovery in the U.S. economy.