Cause of the Berlin Blockade

In 1945, Germany’s economy is at a low and the German currency “Reichsmark” is worth next to nothing. The Western powers want to introduce a currency reform for the economic reconstruction of Germany. After talks about a currency reform for all of Germany with the Soviet side proved futile, the three Western powers introduce their own reform on 20 June 1948. As a consequence, the Soviet military administration also introduces a new currency for their zone of influence – and for all of Berlin – on 23 June. The Western powers decline to implement this regulation in their sectors. In the night of the 24 June, the Soviet allies react with the Berlin Blockade.