What was the main purpose of the Berlin Airlift in 1948?

The Berlin Airlift in 1948 was primarily aimed at supplying West Berlin during the Soviet blockade, which had cut off all ground access to the city. The blockade, initiated by the Soviet Union in June 1948, was an attempt to exert control over the entire city of Berlin, which was divided into East and West sectors after World War II. In response to this situation, the Western Allies—primarily the United States and the United Kingdom—organized the Berlin Airlift to provide the necessary food, fuel, and supplies to the residents of West Berlin.

Over the course of the airlift, which lasted until May 1949, aircraft flew thousands of missions and delivered millions of tons of goods, effectively sustaining the population of West Berlin and demonstrating the commitment of the Western powers to resist Soviet pressure. This operation not only helped to alleviate the immediate humanitarian crisis but also served as a significant episode in the broader context of the Cold War, solidifying the divide between East and West in Europe.

The other options, such as evacuating citizens from East Berlin, establishing a military presence, or promoting air travel, do not accurately reflect the urgent humanitarian and political objectives behind the airlift.