Arthur Zimmermann

Arthur Zimmermann (born October 5, 1864, died June 6, 1940) was also known as Dr.Alfred Zimmmermann in the contemporary American press. He was appointed the German Foreign Secretary in November 1916, succeeding Gotlieb von Jagow. He made key decisions during World War I. He was known for speaking openly and directlly with reporters. He was the first German Foreign Secretary who was not of aristocratic blood. After a political crisis, Zimmermann retired in July 1917. He was succeeded by Count Brockdorff.

He is best known as the author of the Zimmermann Telegram or Zimmermann Note, which led to the United States entering the war.