The Cold War refers to the time when the relationships between the West and East were very bad. The division of Berlin was one of the greatest events during this time.
The Division of Berlin
After World War II, Berlin, the German capital, was divided into four sectors controlled by the Allied powers: the United States, the United Kingdom and France, and the Soviet Union. Ideological differences soon divided the Soviet Union and the Western Allies resulted in the division of Germany itself into West Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) and East Germany (German Democratic Republic).
By contrast, West Berlin, deep in East Germany, was a symbol of Western democracy. It was successfully isolated from the rest of West Germany though, but living like that wasn’t easy.
Western Allies’ Aid to West Berlin (1945–46)
In the Cold War years, Western Allies contributed most in supporting West Berlin and making it survive. Here are some of the key ways in which they provided assistance:
- Berlin Airlift (1948-1949)
In 1948, when the Soviet Union blocked access to West Berlin, cutting off all land and water, no one expected it. In response, the Western Allies made the Berlin Airlift, a mammoth humanitarian effort to transport food, fuel and all other basics to the West Berlin residents.
The United States was the leading power in the Berlin Airlift. American and British cargo planes made more than 200,000 flights over 15 months; they moved more than 2.3 million tons in supplies. The Berlin blockade succeeded in cutting off West Berlin, but the Berlin Airlift provided sustenance, and proved the commitment of the Western Allies to the city.
- Military Presence
Simultaneously, the Western Allies kept up a heavy military power in West Berlin. As a deterrent against Soviet Union and East German aggression, American, British and French troops occupied the city. The presence gave West Berliners a sense of security.
- Financial Assistance
Additionally, funding had come from the Western Allies of West Berlin. Particularly, the United States contributed to the city’s reconstruction and development by giving it financial aid. Through this financial assistance West Berlin’s infrastructures were rebuilt while the standard of living of West Berlin’s residents was also improved.
- Cultural Exchange
The Western Allies not only provided anticipatory practical support, but also promoted cultural exchange and took advantage of democracy to showcase it in West Berlin. An extremely cultural environment cultivated as many artists, musicians, and intellectuals visited West Berlin, a thriving contrast to the East German idea of what culture should be.
Conclusion
Western Allies’ help was crucial in the survival and prosperity of West Berlin in the Cold War. Military presence; financial aid; cultural exchange all contributed to the survival of the city and showed the strength of the military presence of the West Allies.
West Berlin is today a symbol of resistance and the triumph of democracy over difficulty. Supporting the Cold War era shows that although nothing can stand in the way of unity and collaboration, if united we can do anything.