For many Canadians, including young Markham High School student Mary Meyer, there would have been little reason to think that Canada would be at war just months after she used this calendar blotter. In 1914, war may not have seemed imminent. However, a naval race between England and Germany, and arms races between European countries from the early 20th century left military tension. Although in spring 1914 tensions had settled, by July the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand meant war was on the horizon. In fact, just days later Germany attacked France. This happened because of alliances among all of the great powers.
January 1914 calendar blotter, YRDSB M&A Collection