I stood up for myself at work.....bad idea?

I had a situation at work yesterday where I felt I was spoken to in an inappropriate manner so I stood up for myself. I work in an office of only 11 people. I started about 2 months ago.
I approached a manager yesterday with a question pertaining to customer service. I usually approach him with caution because it usually comes across like I'm bothering him, even though thats his job. But anyway he responded with a nasty "what do you expect me to do about it?" Its not just what he said but the tone and voice level he said it and the look on his face. He has a knack for making me feel like a moron. Well, I just had to walk away because I felt a lump in my throat and thought I might cry or say something I would regret. So I just walked back to my desk to gain my composure.
I went back up to him and he goes "Walking away from me won't get you very far" I told him I was sorry for walking away but I didn't like being spoken to like that. I told him that he comes across angry -

I told him he comes across angry alot of the time.
And that it hurts my feelings. He than finally helped me with the ? I had for him initially.

So about 30 minutes later one of the other managers was leaving and he followed him out and I overheard them talking about me and what happened. I don't think asking for respect is too much to ask. Did I make a mistake by defending myself?

No, standing up for a little bit of respect is never a bad thing. It should be the status quo in any work place, but unfortunately that's not always the case. You did it in a fairly respectful way, so I'm sure he wouldn't feel challenged in any way. Good job.

Honestly, that is verbal abuse bullying and harassment and you really need to go to HR and tell them about it so it is reported. Then start looking for another job because this mgr is out of control and has serious issues none of which have to do with you. This is a very bad toxic atmosphere to work in and you do not have to put up with it but you do need to go to HR and talk to them about this because it is very serious.

Nope. You don't come across as a doormat, you demanded the respect you deserve, and you will be noticed as someone who doesn't take any BS from anybody. Do your job well, stand up for yourself in a respectful but firm way and land a promotion. Notice how most managers are Type A personalities? They didn't get there by letting people walk all over them.

You were right to do so. Maybe it will actually make a difference in the future.

If things don't improve after a while, I think I'd go to the next level, and speak with this manager's boss. You deserve respect, and he should be giving it to you.