What did the term "Lend-Lease Act" refer to during World War II?

The term "Lend-Lease Act" referred to a significant program initiated during World War II that allowed the United States to provide military supplies, equipment, and other resources to allied nations. This legislation, passed in 1941, marked a shift in U.S. policy from neutrality to active support of countries fighting against the Axis powers, including the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union, and China.

Under the Lend-Lease Act, the U.S. could send military goods without requiring immediate payment, thereby bolstering the defense capabilities of its allies and helping to sustain their fight against fascism. This act played a crucial role in ensuring that allied forces were equipped and maintained the necessary supplies to continue their efforts during the war, significantly impacting the overall outcome. The Lend-Lease policy exemplified a form of economic and material support that was essential for the war effort and helped strengthen international alliances.