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Today in History: Marshall calls for European aid at Harvard

6/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On June 5, 1947, Secretary of State George C. Marshall addressed Harvard University, urging the United States to fund a massive aid program for devastated Western Europe. His proposal outlined $13.3 billion in assistance to rebuild industry, remove trade barriers, and curb communism—later enacted as the Marshall Plan.

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Story summary

On June 5, 1947, Secretary of State George C. Marshall addressed Harvard University, urging the United States to fund a massive aid program for devastated Western Europe. His proposal outlined $13.3 billion in assistance to rebuild industry, remove trade barriers, and curb communism—later enacted as the Marshall Plan.