The historical significance of the Berlin Airlift, which occurred from 1948 to 1949, lies in its representation of the early Cold War tensions between the West and the Soviet Union. Following the Soviet blockade of West Berlin, aimed at forcing the Allies to abandon the city, the United States and its allies initiated a massive airlift operation to supply food, fuel, and necessities to the isolated population. The operation demonstrated Western resolve to support West Berlin and resist Soviet pressure. Ultimately, the successful airlift not only sustained the city but also solidified the division of East and West and highlighted the ideological struggle of the Cold War.