Zimmermann Telegram: From Berlin to Mexico; No. 1

Title

Zimmermann Telegram: From Berlin to Mexico; No. 1

Creator

Arthur Zimmermann

Identifier

WWP21023

Date

1917 January 16

Source

Library of Congress, Woodrow Wilson Papers, 1786-1957

Text

From Berlin to Mexico(via Washington)
No. 1, January 16, 1917.

Strictly secret. Decode yourself.

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 shall reconquer formerly 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 us and Japan.

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.

zimmermann.

Files

http://resources.presidentwilson.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/WWI0819B.pdf

Collection

Citation

Arthur Zimmermann, “Zimmermann Telegram: From Berlin to Mexico; No. 1,” 1917 January 16, WWP21023, World War I Letters, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, Staunton, Virginia.