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Blockade - GCSE History Definition

Reviewed by: Zoe Wade

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A blockade is a military strategy used in times of conflict where one nation uses its navy or military forces to prevent goods, supplies, or people from entering or leaving the ports and territories of an opposing nation. The aim is to weaken the enemy's economy and war effort by cutting off essential resources. Blockades have been significant throughout history, such as the Berlin Blockade between the West and the Soviet Union and the British blockade of German ports in both World Wars. Understanding blockades helps students appreciate how economic strategies and military tactics interact in shaping the outcomes of historical events.

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Zoe Wade

Reviewer: Zoe Wade

Expertise: History Content Creator

Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

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