Berlin Blockade (jun 24, 1948 – may 12, 1949)

Description:

- rising tensions in Europe as each side perceived the other's actions as aggressive
- the Western powers introduced the Deutschmark in West Germany to replace the Reichsmark and deal with high inflation
- also indicated planned to build a government independent of the East in West Berlin
- the Soviets blocked all road and rail routes, and electricity, to West Berlin
- hoped the West would give up Berlin
- the West responded by airlifting in supplies
- also ceased all movements of materials to the East (counter-blockade)
- Soviets gave up in May 1949
- highlighted the need for collective security in the West, and so created NATO

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