What was the primary goal of the U.S. policy of containment during the Cold War?

The primary goal of the U.S. policy of containment during the Cold War was to stop the spread of communism. This strategy emerged in response to the geopolitical tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, particularly following World War II when Communist movements gained power in several countries. The idea, articulated by policymakers like George F. Kennan, was that communism was inherently expansionist and that if it were not contained, it would continue to spread, threatening democratic countries and capitalism worldwide.

Containment took various forms, including military alliances, economic aid programs like the Marshall Plan, support for anti-communist regimes, and direct military engagements, such as in Korea and Vietnam. The overarching aim was to limit Soviet influence and prevent the domino effect of nations falling under communist control, thus preserving a balance of power favorable to the West. This approach ultimately shaped U.S. foreign policy for several decades during the Cold War.