What was the Berlin Blockade
The Soviet Union’s attempt in 1948–1949 to cut off all land and water access to West Berlin
Why did the USSR impose the blockade
To force the Western Allies to abandon West Berlin and gain control over the entire city
Which routes were blocked by the Soviets
Roads
How did the blockade affect the population of West Berlin
Severe shortages of food
How did the Western Allies respond
By organising the Berlin Airlift to supply the city with food and resources by plane
Who led the Western response
USA (General Lucius Clay)
How long did the Berlin Blockade last
From June 1948 to May 1949
What was the outcome of the blockade
The USSR lifted the blockade after failing to starve West Berlin into submission
What was the significance of the Berlin Blockade
First major Cold War crisis
How did the blockade affect US–Soviet relations
Increased tension