Photo AI
How did the Berlin Blockade (1948-1949) and/or the Hungarian Uprising (1956) contribute to international tensions? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2021
Question 1
How did the Berlin Blockade (1948-1949) and/or the Hungarian Uprising (1956) contribute to international tensions?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How did the Berlin Blockade (1948-1949) and/or the Hungarian Uprising (1956) contribute to international tensions? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2021
Step 1
How did the Berlin Blockade (1948-1949) contribute to international tensions?
Answer
The Berlin Blockade was a pivotal event during the early Cold War that heightened tensions between the Soviet Union and the Western Allies. Following World War II, Germany was divided into four occupation zones, each controlled by one of the Allies. In 1948, the Soviet Union blocked all ground access to West Berlin in response to the Western Allies' decision to introduce a new currency, the Deutsche Mark, in their zones.
This blockade led to a major crisis as the Western Allies, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, organized the Berlin Airlift to supply the city with food and fuel. The airlift was a demonstration of commitment to counter Soviet pressure, escalating the arms race and solidifying divisions in Europe.
Furthermore, the blockade resulted in the formation of NATO in 1949, as Western nations sought collective security against the perceived threat of Soviet expansion. It marked a critical point in the Cold War, as it led to a series of confrontations and further entrenchment of the ideologically opposed blocs.
In summary, the Berlin Blockade significantly increased international tensions by:
- Demonstrating the growing divide between East and West.
- Justifying military alliances, such as NATO.
- Creating an atmosphere of mistrust and hostility that characterized much of the Cold War.
Step 2
How did the Hungarian Uprising (1956) contribute to international tensions?
Answer
The Hungarian Uprising of 1956 was a nationwide revolt against the Soviet-imposed policies in Hungary, which escalated tensions in Europe and beyond. Initially sparked by calls for more political freedom and the withdrawal of Soviet troops, the uprising quickly gained momentum, leading to the declaration of Hungary as an independent nation.
The Soviet response was swift and brutal. After a brief window of Hungarian success, Soviet forces invaded Budapest to quash the uprising, leading to significant casualties and a mass exodus of Hungarians seeking refuge.
Western nations were largely unable to intervene militarily due to the doctrine of containment and fears of escalating into a full-blown war. However, the uprising drew widespread international condemnation and highlighted the limits of U.S. policy in Eastern Europe. The failure of Western powers to assist Hungary caused many to lose faith in the West's commitment to defending liberties in Soviet satellite states.
In summary, the Hungarian Uprising escalated international tensions by:
- Exposing the limitations of U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War.
- Increasing fears of Soviet expansionism in Europe.
- Mobilizing anti-communist sentiments in the West, which led to renewed discussions on policy toward Eastern Europe.