[6] Consequences of the Berlin Blockade

What was future of Germany and the state of the zones

After the war, Germany was divided into 4 sections. The 4 zones faced economic chaos, causing struggles between France, the USSR, the US, and Britain. In 1947, the US and UK merged their zones to form Bizonia, increasing tensions. By 1948, Britain, France, and the USA combined their zones into Trizonia, which later became West Germany in 1949. They reformed the currency, and within months, signs of Germany's recovery appeared.

What was happening between the USA and USSR before the Blockade that showed tensions?

By 1948, distrust between the USA and USSR had escalated to the point where leaders openly discussed the threat of war. Both sides increased their weapons stockpiles and seized every opportunity to denounce each other's policies. A propaganda war developed, and in 1948, they came dangerously close to war.

Describe the events of the Berlin Blockade in 1948-1949

1948 June 24th - USSR blockades West Berlin

1948 June 26th - The USA and their allies begin the Berlin Airlift to deliver key supplies to Berlin by air

1949 May 12th - The USSR lifts their blockade of West Berlin

Describe the Berlin Airlift

On June 26th 1948, the USA and their allies began the Berlin Airlift.

1,500 flights per day and delivered almost 5000 tons of cargo to keep West Berlin supplied

American pilots also dropped chocolate and chewing gum resulting in a publicity boost for the USA

After the Soviets found out about the potential plan for Trizonia what happened

The Soviets left Allied Control Council in March 1948

What did the US and UK do in Germany that increased tensions and how did the Soviets respond

The US and UK introduced the Deutschmark in Bizonia and West Berlin without informing the Soviets, aiming to gain economic control and support the Marshall Plan. In response, the Soviets blockaded Berlin and introduced the Otsmark, cutting off essential supplies and electricity to West Germany.

What were the 6 consequences of the Berlin Blockade

State of the West Germany was established
NATO was created
Leader of West Germany was established
Arms race
COMECON was established
The Warsaw Pact was established

What was the Warsaw Pact and why was it established

The Warsaw Pact was a military alliance of socialist states in Eastern Europe, led by the Soviet Union. It was established on May 14, 1955, in response to the formation of NATO and the rearmament of West Germany.