Question

Which of the following best describes a central idea of the text?

a) Germany was facing severe backlash from other European countries following the end of WWII.
b) Post-WWII, Europe was in an economic crisis for which the United States could and should provide some relief.
c) The economies of Europe were breaking down, leaving the continent vulnerable to possible attack.
d) Re-institution of traditional agriculture in Europe (as opposed to industry) was the only way to solve their economic crisis.

Answer 1

The option that best matches the central idea of the text is b) Post-WWII, Europe was in an economic crisis for which the United States could and should provide some relief. The text indicates that Europe faced severe economic instability post-World War II, with the United States offering significant aid to prevent the spread of communism and rebuild capitalist prosperity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options given, the one that best describes a central idea of the mentioned text is: b) Post-WWII, Europe was in an economic crisis for which the United States could and should provide some relief. After World War II, European and Asian nations were grappling with grave economic instability, characterized by high unemployment, inflation, and widespread shortages. The United States, emerging from the war as an economic superpower, took on a leading role in offering economic aid and establishing an international order designed to foster peace and prosperity.

The provided excerpts describe the intention of the United States to reunify Germany, emphasizing its crucial role in the European economy, as well as the potential for the spread of Communism if economic woes were not addressed. The excerpts detail the economic aid provided by the United States and its efforts to prevent the spread of collectivist theories by financially supporting nations to return to Capitalist prosperity. Additionally, the historical context of the devastation on European economies during and post World War I and II supports the central idea that economic aid was expedient for Europe's recovery.