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Zimmerman Telegram

Definition

The Zimmerman Telegram was a secret diplomatic communication issued from Germany proposing a military alliance between Germany and Mexico if the United States entered World War I against Germany. British intelligence intercepted and decrypted it, leading to increased support for U.S entry into the war.

Related terms

Alliance: An agreement between countries to support each other in times of war. It's like forming teams during a school sports event - you agree to work together for mutual benefit.

Espionage: The practice of spying or using spies to obtain information about plans and activities of a foreign government or competing company. It's like being Sherlock Holmes on an international level.

Cryptography: The art of writing or solving codes. If espionage is being Sherlock Holmes, then cryptography is being his best friend Dr Watson who helps decode all those cryptic clues!

"Zimmerman Telegram" appears in:

Subjects (1)

AP European History

Study guides (1)

AP US History - 7.5 World War I: Military and Diplomacy

Practice Questions (4)

What was the Zimmerman Telegram?
Why was the Zimmerman Telegram significant in World War I?
If Germany had achieved its objectives in the Zimmerman Telegram causing Mexico to join Central Powers, what would be the plausible consequences for America's participation in World War I?
Which event did the Zimmerman Telegram lead to during Period 7 in US history?

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