The article substantiates the role of the study of the historical basis and socio-economic conditions preceding the creation of scientific theories and fundamental and applied recommendations in the process of resource spatial distribution. The main milestones of the retrospective transformation of the world space in different historical periods are considered. A detailed analysis of the formation of the United States and Germany in the global geopolitical space was carried out. The influence of world wars and post-war reconstruction periods on resource spatial redistribution was determined. Approaches to economic recovery were identified; and their distinctive features were characterized. The most important points of intersection in the management of the resource base in the spatial aspect between the period of post-war transformation of the world at different stages and the current period were identified. They act as the basis for the formation of a modern model of the spatial distribution of economic resources at the stage of transition to new world economic relations. FUNDING: The article was prepared based on the results of research carried out at the expense of budgetary funds under the state assignment of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.