THE ZIMMERMAN TELEGRAM
In January of 1917, the German foreign secretary, Arthur
Zimmermann, sent the following telegram to the German
ambassador to Mexico, Count Johann von Bernstorff. The
telegram was intercepted and deciphered by British
intelligence, and the contents of the telegram were
eventually printed in hundreds of American newspapers.
To German Ambassador, Mexico City
Top Secret – Decipher Personally
Berlin, January 19, 1917
We intend to begin on the first of February unrestricted
submarine warfare. We shall endeavor in spite of this to
keep the United States of America neutral. In the event of
this not succeeding, we make Mexico a proposal of
alliance on the following basis: make war together, make
peace together, generous financial support and an understanding on our part that Mexico is to
reconquer the lost territory in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. The settlement in detail is left to
you. You will inform the President of the above most secretly as soon as the outbreak of war with
the United States of America is certain and add the suggestion that he should, on his own
initiative, invite Japan to immediate adherence and at the same time mediate between Japan and
ourselves. Please call the President's attention to the fact that the ruthless employment of our
submarines now offers the prospect of compelling England in a few months to make peace."
Signed, ZIMMERMANN
QUESTIONS FOR ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
1. Why did the Germans send this telegram? Give at least three reasons.
2. Imagine that you are President Wilson and have just read this telegram? What are
you emotions? What are your first words to your advisors?
3. Imagine that you live in Texas and have just read this telegram. What message
would you send to President Wilson in reaction to its message?
4. The United States had failed to capture the Mexican bandit Pancho Villa, even
though it had sent trips into Mexico looking for him. With this history in mind, how
might Germany have evaluated the relative abilities of the Mexican and American
armies?
5. Imagine that you are German foreign secretary Zimmerman and have just been told
that the British have decoded your telegram and that President Wilson has read it.
What is your reaction to the news? Explain you answer.
1. According to the cartoon, how did Mexico react to the offer made by Germany in
the Zimmerman telegram?
2. Do you think the Mexican government actually felt this way? Why or why not?