How did the U.S. response to the Berlin blockade?

In response to the Berlin Blockade imposed by the Soviet Union in 1948, the United States, along with its Western Allies initiated the Berlin Airlift to supply West Berlin with essential supplies, effectively bypassing the blockade.

The Berlin Blockade began when the Soviet Union blocked all land and water access routes to West Berlin, which was under Western Allied control but located within Soviet-controlled East Germany. The Soviets aimed to starve West Berlin into submission and gain control of the entire city.

In response, the United States, Britain and France organized a massive airlift operation known as the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949). Cargo planes flew round-the-clock missions, delivering food, fuel and other supplies to West Berlin. This operation was a colossal logistical effort, providing the necessities needed to sustain the city's population.

The Berlin Airlift was a significant display of Western resolve and commitment to protecting the freedom and autonomy of West Berlin. It demonstrated the determination of the Allies to resist Soviet aggression without resorting to military conflict. Ultimately the Soviet Union ended the blockade in May 1949, allowing access to West Berlin once again.