Question

Until recent years, America’s post-World War 2 trade policy was based on the idea that

A trade was harmful to our domestic industries, which needed protection

B trade was an essential part of preventing another horrible war

C trade was justified only with countries who had been our Allie’s in WW2

D trade would allow America to dominate the world

Answer 1

America's post-World War II trade policy was primarily aimed at preventing further conflict and maintaining global peace through the promotion of free trade.

Step-by-step explanation:

After World War II, America's trade policy was based on the idea that B. trade was an essential part of preventing another horrible war. The United States played a key role in creating the post-war international order with the intention of maintaining global peace and prosperity. The understanding was that this interconnectedness through trade would help avert conflicts that might lead to war, building stable economic alliances that could provide mutual benefits. Free trade saw rapid growth due to the economic boom during the war and the advantageous position of the US economy, which was undamaged by the war and could supply goods to the world, potentially dominating global markets.

The first wave of globalization ended with World War I and was followed by a period of protectionism and economic isolation during the Great Depression. Post World War II marked a gradual return to international trade, which became as significant to the global economy in the 1980s as it had been before World War I. This shift was not without concerns regarding the domestic job market and national security linked to a strong manufacturing base, exacerbated by the rise of Japan and Germany in the global economy. Nevertheless, the initial post-WWII policy favored the promotion of trade as a tool for a peaceful and interconnected world.