The Berlin Airlift began on June 26, 1948, as a direct consequence of the Soviet Union's blockade of West Berlin, aimed at consolidating control over the city in the context of post-World War II divisions. The Western Allies, determined to maintain their presence in West Berlin and prevent it from falling into Soviet hands, orchestrated one of the most massive logistical operations in history. The airlift became a symbol of Western resolve against Soviet aggression. Supported by the United States, the United Kingdom, and other Allied nations, thousands of aircraft flew daily missions to deliver food, fuel, and other critical supplies to the beleaguered city.By September 1949, with the blockade lifted, the airlift operations came to an official end after successfully delivering supplies to over 2 million residents. The blockade lasted nearly a year and saw Allied pilots fly around the clock, under significant risk, to ensure the city's survival. The operation was marked by various challenges, including the limited capacity of cargo planes, adverse weather conditions, and the constant threat of Soviet military intervention. The sheer scale of the operation showcased Allied ingenuity, coordination, and commitment to their democratic ideals.In addition to its logistical achievements, the Berlin Airlift had profound political implications. It solidified the divide between East and West, reinforcing the ideological struggle that would define the Cold War. Both superpowers used the event to solidify their influence in Europe, with the Western Allies emerging as champions of freedom against totalitarianism. The successful resolution of the blockade also led to the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949, further entrenching the divide in European geopolitics.