The Berlin Blockade

• The Berlin Blockade lasted from June 24, 1948, to May 12, 1949. It was one of the first major crises of the Cold War, involving the Soviet Union and the Western Allies (the United States, the United Kingdom, and France).

• After World War II, Germany was divided into four occupation zones controlled by the US, the UK, France, and the Soviet Union. Berlin, located in the Soviet zone, was also divided into four sectors.

• The Western Allies planned to merge their zones to form West Germany and introduced a new currency, the Deutsche Mark, in their sectors, which angered the Soviets.

• In response, the Soviet Union blocked all road, rail, and canal access to West Berlin, aiming to force the Western Allies out of the city.

• To counter the blockade, the Western Allies organised the Berlin Airlift, flying in food, fuel, and other essential supplies to sustain the West Berlin population.

• The US-led airlift operation was codenamed "Operation Vittles," while the British operation was known as "Operation Plainfare." They flew over 200,000 flights in less than a year.

• Pilots and crews from the US, UK, and other Allied countries worked tirelessly to deliver supplies, ensuring that West Berliners had enough to survive.

• US pilot Gail Halvorsen became famous as the "Candy Bomber" for dropping candy to children in Berlin, boosting morale during the blockade.

• The blockade failed to force the Allies out of Berlin. Instead, it strengthened the resolve of the Western Allies and demonstrated their commitment to protecting West Berlin.

• On May 12, 1949, the Soviet Union lifted the blockade, acknowledging their unsuccessful efforts. The Berlin Airlift continued until September to build up supplies in case of future blockades.