What is the primary purpose of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)?

The primary purpose of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is to provide collective defense and security for its member countries. Formed in 1949, NATO was established in response to the geopolitical landscape of the post-World War II era, particularly the threat posed by the Soviet Union. The core principle of NATO, enshrined in Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, asserts that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all, thereby obligating members to come to each other's defense.

This collective security arrangement is fundamental to NATO's mission, fostering a sense of solidarity among member nations and deterring potential aggressors. The organization plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Euro-Atlantic area and has adapted over time to address new security challenges, including terrorism and cyber threats.

While economic support, cultural exchanges, and international trade agreements are important aspects of international relations, they do not capture the essence of NATO's primary role, which is centered on defense and the protection of its member states through military cooperation and strategic alliances. Thus, the focus on collective defense clearly underscores why the answer is C.