Final answer:
The US emerged from World War II with an economic surplus and intact industrial infrastructure, which, along with its vast resources, empowered it to aid Europe's reconstruction and dominate the global economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The US favorable position in the planet economy was established post-World War II when the nation emerged with a substantial surplus in its balance of trade. By exporting military equipment and consumer goods to the Allied powers, the American economy saw a remarkable recovery from the Great Depression. Unlike Europe and Japan, the United States avoided widespread wartime destruction (aside from Pearl Harbor), positioning itself with a robust industrial sector and military capabilities.
The US was thus empowered to play a leading role in shaping the post-war international order by advocating for peace and economic prosperity. It provided substantial aid through initiatives like the Marshall Plan, helped rebuild war-torn nations, and facilitated the entry of US-manufactured goods into global markets. By 1960, the US GDP had soared, reflecting its vast economic power.
The combination of a large and unscathed industrial base, technological advancements, and the presence of vast natural resources were all factors that contributed to the US's leading position. The American dollar became the dominant world currency, and the nation's military and economic strength allowed it to influence the post-war reconstruction of Europe, fostering a period of significant growth and prosperity.