Conflict over Germany, 1947-49​

What was the situation in post-war Germany after 1945?

Divided into four occupation zones (US, UK, France, USSR) with the ACC (Allied Control Council) intended for joint administration.

How did the USSR run its occupation zone?

Centralised control, land reform, nationalisation, and merger of KPD + SPD into the SED (dominant communist party).

How did the Western powers run their zones?

Encouraged democratic political parties, economic recovery, and retained more political freedoms.

Why did joint occupation begin to break down?

Increasing Cold War tensions, Soviet obstruction in the ACC, and disagreements over reparations and economic policy.

What was Bizonia?

The merging of the US and British zones in January 1947 to improve economic efficiency.

Why was Bizonia created?

To stabilise the western zones, rebuild the economy, and counter Soviet intransigence in the ACC.

What was the Currency Reform of 1948?

Introduction of the Deutsche Mark in the western zones (June 1948) to tackle inflation and revive the economy.

Why did the currency reform anger Stalin?

It was introduced without Soviet consent and undermined Soviet control in the eastern zone and in Berlin.

What caused the Berlin Blockade?

Soviet reaction to currency reform and western plans for a separate West German state.

What did Stalin hope to achieve with the Blockade?

To force the Western Allies out of Berlin by cutting off all road, rail, and canal access.

How did the West respond to the Blockade?

Launched the Berlin Airlift (Operation Vittles), flying supplies into West Berlin for almost a year.

Why did the Blockade fail?

The airlift successfully sustained Berlin, and the USSR risked war if it interfered with air corridors.

What were the consequences of the Blockade?

Permanent division of Germany, creation of NATO, and increased US commitment to Europe.

When was West Germany (FRG) established?

May 1949, following formation of a Basic Law and elections.

What political model did the FRG adopt?

A democratic, federal system closely aligned with the West.

When was East Germany (GDR) established?

October 1949, after the Soviet zone consolidated under the SED.

What political model did the GDR adopt?

A socialist one-party state dominated by the SED under Soviet influence.

What is NATO?

A defensive military alliance formed by the USA, Canada, and Western European states in April 1949.

Why was NATO created?

In response to Soviet aggression, the Berlin Blockade, and the need to commit the USA to European defence.

What principle underpinned NATO?

Collective security—an attack on one member is an attack on all (Article 5).

How did the USSR react to NATO?

Condemned it as an aggressive, imperialist alliance; later responded with the Warsaw Pact (1955).

What were the main causes of conflict over Germany 1947–49?

Disagreements over economic recovery, currency reform, Soviet security concerns, and differing political visions.

How did the West contribute to rising tensions?

Creation of Bizonia, currency reform, and moves toward a West German state.

How did the USSR contribute?

Blocking ACC cooperation, imposing communist control in its zone, and launching the Berlin Blockade.

What was the overall significance of the 1947–49 conflict over Germany?

It solidified the division of Europe, created two German states, and led to lasting military alliances (NATO).