Superpower Relations and the Cold War (1941-1991)

Introduction

• Course: GCSE Edexcel 9 to 1
• Focus: Superpower relations and Cold War
• Additional Resources: Membership provides exclusive access to worksheets, revision materials, and voting on content.

Background to the Cold War

• Yalta Conference (1945): Decision to divide Germany into four zones:
  • USA
  • USSR
  • France
  • Great Britain
• Allied Controlled Commission (ACC): Established to manage zones.
• Military Checkpoints: Set up between zones.

Western and Soviet Goals

• Western Allies (USA, UK, France): Desire to rebuild Germany's economy for trade.
• USSR: Aimed to exploit raw materials for Russian reconstruction post-WWII.

Rising Tensions (1945-1947)

• Atomic bomb use by the USA without consulting allies.
• Hostile speeches by Truman and Churchill.

Formation of Bizonia and Trizonia

• 1947: UK and USA combined zones into Bizonia.
• 1948: France joined to form Trizonia.
• New Currency: Deutsche Mark introduced in June 1948, angering Stalin.

Berlin Crisis (1948-1949)

• Stalin's Reaction: Viewed economic separation as a threat.
• Berlin Blockade (June 1948): Stalin blocked land access to Berlin.
• Aim: Force Trizonia to give up Berlin control.

Truman's Dilemma

• Avoid military conflict but respond to Soviet aggression.
• Solution: Berlin Airlift (Operation Vittles).
  • Start: June 24, 1948
  • Supplies: Food, fuel, medicines delivered by air.
  • Effort: 1000 tons/day by US pilots, similar by British.
  • Community Effort: New runway and airport constructed with local help.

Outcome of the Berlin Blockade

• End: May 9, 1949
• Result:
  • West responded peacefully, winning propaganda advantage.
  • Propelled permanent division of Germany into East (GDR) and West (FRG).

Formation of West and East Germany

• Federal Republic of Germany (FRG): Established May 23, 1949.
• Capital of FRG: Moved to Bonn.
• German Democratic Republic (GDR): Formed by Stalin in October 1949.
• Global Recognition: West and East Germany referred to as such until 1970s acceptance of GDR.

Conclusion

• First Berlin Crisis Review: Key events and outcomes.
• Further Resources: Available on the presenter’s website for additional study materials.