1. The Berlin Blockade (1948-1949)
The Berlin Blockade, initiated by the Soviet Union from June 24, 1948, to May 12, 1949, aimed to force the Western Allies out of West Berlin by cutting off all land and water access. In response, the United States and the United Kingdom organized the Berlin Airlift, supplying the city with essential goods via air. This operation not only sustained West Berlin but also symbolized the Western commitment to counter Soviet expansion during the early Cold War period (britannica.com).
