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Explain two of the following: - The importance of the Berlin Crisis (1948–49) for the development of the Cold War - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
Explain two of the following: - The importance of the Berlin Crisis (1948–49) for the development of the Cold War. - The importance of the Prague Spring for relati... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain two of the following: - The importance of the Berlin Crisis (1948–49) for the development of the Cold War - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
The importance of the Berlin Crisis (1948–49) for the development of the Cold War.
Answer
The Berlin Crisis of 1948-49 was pivotal in shaping the early Cold War landscape. It began when the Western powers introduced a new currency in West Germany, prompting the Soviet blockade of Berlin in response. This act was a bold attempt by Stalin to exert pressure on the West and force them out of Berlin.
In reaction, the United States launched the Berlin Airlift, which became a symbol of Western resolve. By supplying West Berlin with essential resources for nearly a year, the airlift demonstrated the commitment of the Western allies to defend democratic values against communist expansion.
Moreover, the failure of the blockade solidified divisions between East and West, culminating in the formation of NATO and the Warsaw Pact. The crisis highlighted the ideological rift and set the stage for heightened tensions, marking a significant turning point in the escalation of the Cold War.
Step 2
The importance of the Prague Spring for relations between East and West.
Answer
The Prague Spring of 1968, characterized by reforms led by Alexander Dubcek, aimed to introduce greater freedoms in Czechoslovakia, including more press freedom and the decentralization of the economy. These reforms encouraged a wave of anti-communist sentiment across Eastern Europe, signalling a challenge to Soviet dominance.
The West generally supported these reforms, viewing them as a positive step towards democratization. However, the subsequent invasion of Czechoslovakia by the Soviet Union showcased the limits of reform in the Eastern Bloc and led to a deterioration of East-West relations. The event also provoked public outcry in the West and increased tensions, as it was perceived as a crackdown on the liberalizing efforts within communist countries.
Thus, the Prague Spring became a critical moment that underscored the ongoing struggle between reformist movements in the East and the rigid communist regimes backed by the USSR.