How did many Americans react to the publication of Zimmermann Telegram?

The publication of the Zimmermann Telegram sparked outrage and alarm among many Americans. The telegram revealed Germany's secret plans to form an alliance with Mexico against the United States, promising to help Mexico regain its "lost territory" in the southwestern United States. This revelation came at a time when the United States was already considering entering World War I on the side of the Allied Powers, and the Zimmermann Telegram provided further impetus for American intervention.

The telegram's publication led to a surge in public support for declaring war on Germany. Newspapers across the country published the telegram's contents, and editorials condemned Germany's actions. Many Americans felt betrayed by Germany, which had been a major trading partner and had previously maintained a policy of neutrality towards the United States. The telegram also raised concerns about the loyalty of German-Americans within the United States, as it implied that Germany was actively seeking to undermine American interests.

President Woodrow Wilson used the Zimmermann Telegram as evidence of Germany's hostile intentions towards the United States in his address to Congress on April 2, 1917, asking for a declaration of war. The telegram played a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing Congress to vote in favor of declaring war, which the United States officially did on April 6, 1917.