What is the meaning of Containment in the context of Cold War policy?

Containment refers to a strategic policy aimed at preventing the spread of communism beyond where it already existed at the time, particularly during the Cold War period. This policy was primarily established by the United States in response to the perceived threat of Soviet influence and communist expansion. The goal of containment was not to eliminate communism in already-existing states but rather to curb its expansion into new regions and countries.

Support for this policy manifested in various forms, including diplomatic efforts, economic aid (such as the Marshall Plan), and military involvement in regions where communist movements were gaining strength. By maintaining a balance of power and limiting communist influence, the United States aimed to protect democratic nations and promote political systems aligned with its own values.

The other options highlight different aspects of international relations and foreign policy but do not accurately capture the essence of containment. While isolating communist countries or promoting capitalism and military alliances might have been part of broader strategies, they do not specifically define the containment approach, which had a focused goal of stopping the territorial spread of communism.