What was the primary motivation for the formation of NATO?

The primary motivation for the formation of NATO was to create a collective defense alliance against the Soviet Union. In the aftermath of World War II, rising tensions and the perceived threat of Soviet expansionism in Europe prompted Western nations to unite for mutual security. NATO, which stands for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, was established in 1949 as a response to the need for a cooperative defense strategy. The principle of collective defense enshrined in Article 5 of the NATO treaty states that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all members. This was particularly significant during the Cold War, as it aimed to deter potential aggression from the Soviet bloc and ensure the security of Western democracies.

Other options, while they may involve cooperation or relations among countries, do not embody the core purpose of NATO. Promoting economic trade, facilitating diplomatic relations, or establishing a common currency were not the foundational reasons for NATO's creation, which was deeply rooted in addressing security concerns and mutual defense commitments amidst a backdrop of geopolitical instability.