an alliance with
Germany. Germany was to furnish money and Mexico was to reconquer New
Mexico, Texas, and Arizona. It was also hinted that Mexico should
suggest to Japan that the latter country should come into the agreement.
The interesting thing about the note is that it was dated January 19,
twelve days before Germany announced to us her plan for ruthless
submarine warfare, and during a time when our relations with Germany,
though under a great strain, were still peaceable.

ARMED NEUTRALITY.--About the time the Zimmerman note was published,
President Wilson asked Congress to authorize the arming of American
merchant ships for their own defense. A small minority in Congress by
their obstructive tactics prevented the passage of the desired
resolution before Congress expired on March 4. On March 12 the President
announced that this country had determined to place an armed guard on
all United States merchant vessels, which under international law might
defend themselves from attack, although Germany denied this right. There
is no evidence, however, that there was any encounter between these
armed ships and German vessels prior to the outbreak of the war.

THE PRESIDENT'S WAR MESSAGE.--When Russia deposed the Czar and
established a democratic government, in March, 1917, the last reason was
removed which might have held us back from a declaration of war. Many
believed that it would have been illogical for us to fight for democracy
side by side with one of the greatest of autocracies. President Wilson
called Congress in special session and on April 2 delivered his famous
war message, asking Congress to declare that a state of war existed
between the United States and Germany.

In the message he told of the various acts of Germany which had led up
to the verge of war, recited the steps which our government had taken to
bring Germany to realize the inevitable results of her crimes against
civilization, and concluded by asking Congress to declare war. The
President stated that the aims of the United States in the war are:

1. That the people of every nation may determine the form of government
under which they wish to live.

2. That the small nations may have the right to exist and be protected
against aggression.

3. That the future peace of the world may be guaranteed through the
formation of a league of nations.

4. That the world may be made safe for democracy.

THE DECLARATION OF WAR.--In accordance with the rec