The Bretton Woods system, a pivotal agreement established in 1944, represents the international monetary arrangement formed during a United Nations conference held in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. This system aimed to stabilize the global economy following World War II by creating a framework for international monetary cooperation. Key features included the establishment of fixed exchange rates tied to the U.S. dollar, which was in turn convertible to gold, and the creation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
The significance of this system lies in its role in fostering postwar economic growth and stability. It provided a predictable exchange rate environment, facilitating international trade and investment. The IMF was designed to provide short-term loans to countries facing balance of payments difficulties, while the World Bank focused on providing long-term loans for reconstruction and development. This framework helped to prevent competitive devaluations and promote international monetary cooperation, contributing significantly to global economic prosperity for several decades.