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.…
— telegram of january 19, 1917
publication of this telegram in united states
newspapers to
(1) reelect woodrow wilson as president
(2) convince the american public to support
entrance into world war i
(3) encourage congress to pass neutrality
legislation
(4) grant statehood to arizona and new mexico