History of the United States II / Unit 8 USH2 1063 short lesson, about 20 seconds
The Zimmermann Telegram
Captions available
The idea
British intelligence intercepted and decoded a telegram from German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmermann inviting Mexico to join the war against the United States.
In practice
Mexico promised the return of Arizona, New Mexico and Texas if it attacked.
Where people slip
The National Archives says its threats inflamed American opinion and helped convince Congress to declare war.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
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