What did the Cash and Carry clause in the Neutrality Act do?

The Cash and Carry clause in the Neutrality Act of 1939 allowed belligerent nations to purchase non-military goods from the United States, provided they paid in cash and transported the goods themselves. This policy aimed to support Allied nations while maintaining U.S. neutrality by avoiding loans and war debts. It marked a shift from earlier neutrality policies by enabling the U.S. to assist those fighting against Axis powers without direct involvement in the conflict.