Social Studies 10 Lessons 📖

By: Gen L

In partnership with Hyperion University, 2023

Lesson 2: PM King (1945-1948)

International Affairs: Spies in Canada

  • Late 1945: Igor Gouzenko, a Soviet embassy clerb in Ottawa defected to Canada, revealing a Soviet spy ring in Canada.
  • This was a shock and wake up call to the west.

The Berlin Airlift (1948-1949)

  • Germany was divided into Four Sectors (US, Br, Fr. & USSR)
  • Berlin (in the Soviet Sector), was also divided into four zones.
  • June, 1948: Soviets blockade rail and roadways into the Western zones of Berlin.
  • The western powers could either:
    • Supply 2.5 million Berliners by air
    • Abandon the City
    • Send a convoy to open the blockade.

The Vittles Operation

  • 4500 Tonnes of food, coal & other resources were needed daily.
  • Three airports were uses; planes landed continuously, in 3 minute intervals, 24/7. (Imagine the coordination needed.)
  • Soviets harassed the aircraft, using jamming, drifting balloons and spotlights.

The Conclusion

  • The blockade lasted until May, 1949: Soviets gave in and allowed land routes to open.
  • Canadian forces did not participate directly, but many Canadian pilots flew American planes during the crisis.

Next Lesson