Notes
The Berlin Blockade, 1948
- Began with currency reforms in West Germany
- Russians block the transportation routes into Berlin
- Allies had to decide to give up Berlin or make other plans
- War was an option
- Instead the US decided on a massive airlift to supply the western half of the city
- One aircraft lands every two minutes for fifteen months
- It became a public relations victory and a show of US industrial might
- Example of the Truman Doctrine
- One cause for the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organziation (NATO)
Summary
War was a massive option when it came to the Berlin Blockade. The Russians blocked vital transportation routs to the city; therefore, the allies had a decision whether to surrender Berlin, or make new plans. However, the US got involved by supplying the western half of Berlin through great airlifts; one aircraft landed every two minutes for fifteen months. As a result, this was an example of the Truman Doctrine, and it showed the world of US industrial power.
Quote
"Experience has shown how deeply the seeds of war are planted by economic rivalry and social injustice." - Harry S Truman
subjunctive question
What would of became of Berlin if the USSR hadn't blocked off transportation, or if the US hadn't supplied all of West Germany?