Final answer:
Political motivations for foreign aid included the goal to undercut competition from rival ideologies such as socialism, particularly during the Cold War. This strategy was used by the U.S. to protect its economic interests abroad and to promote capitalism to counter the appeal of collectivism in economically unstable nations.
Therefore, option B is correct
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the political motivations for foreign aid was to undercut competition from nations with rival political ideologies such as socialism (Option b). During the Cold War, aid was used strategically by countries like the United States to prevent the spread of communism and promote capitalist interests. In various instances, such as in Guatemala, foreign interference was motivated by economic interests, where land reforms threatened American companies. The U.S. responded with a military coup to protect their interests. Furthermore, economic aid was essential to curb the appeal of collectivism in Europe post-World War II, as impoverished populations might have found socialist policies attractive.
In the case of the United States, the Cold War era was characterized by efforts to ensure access to resources and markets, as well as to halt the spread of communism. Economic development and the advancement of U.S. business interests globally were also primary goals of U.S. foreign policy, as this would not only help sell domestic products abroad but also attract foreign investment.