Arthur Zimmermann
(5.10.1864 - 6.6.1940)
place of birth: Marggrabowa-Treuburg (Olecko
- East Prussia)
German Foreign
Minister (1916-17) who prior to the war, was responsible for
drafting the communique to Vienna which promised Germany's support
should Austro-Hungarian troops invade Serbia. He later authored the
sensational proposal to Mexico (Zimmermann Telegram) to enter war
in alliance against the U.S.; the quid pro quo being German
assistance in helping Mexico reconquer lost territory in Texas, Arizona
and New Mexico. This became a principle factor in the U.S. decision to
declare war on Germany (1917). He died on 6 June 1940 in Berlin.
| "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 [Mexican] 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 [Mexican] 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
makes peace." Signed, ZIMMERMANN |
|
Arthur
Zimmermann
