6. The Berlin Blockade (1948-1949)
In June 1948, the Soviet Union initiated the Berlin Blockade, cutting off all land and water routes to West Berlin in an attempt to force the Western Allies out of the city. In response, the United States and Britain organized the Berlin Airlift, supplying the city with essential goods via air for nearly a year. This operation successfully circumvented the blockade without resorting to military conflict, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to Europe and setting the tone for Cold War diplomacy (history.com).
