International Workers’ Day, or Labour Day, is commemorated worldwide on May 1. This day honours workers and their efforts. Labour Day’s history reflects the labour movement’s victories and setbacks. The start…
International Workers’ Day, or Labour Day, is commemorated worldwide on May 1. This day honours workers and their efforts. Labour Day’s history reflects the labour movement’s victories and setbacks.
Labour Day began in the late 19th century when industrialised employees demanded improved working conditions, fair salaries, and the ability to establish unions.
The Central Labour Union organised the inaugural Labour Day in New York City in 1882. It was a day off for the working class to honour their contributions to society. It immediately expanded to other cities and became an annual event.
To honour Chicago’s 1886 Haymarket event, the International Socialist Congress in Paris designated May 1 International Workers’ Day in 1889. A bomb hurled at police during a nonviolent labour protest on May 1 killed numerous cops and protestors. Despite insufficient proof, eight anarchists were convicted, four executed, and one committed jail suicide. The Haymarket event inspired International Workers’ Day and rallied workers worldwide.
Labour Day became a primary political rallying day in the early 20th century, notably in socialist and communist nations. It was a day for employees to demand better working conditions, more significant salaries, and more rights. The Soviet Union declared May 1 a national holiday in 1917, and several other nations followed suit.
Following the 1894 Pullman Strike, which saw over 250,000 workers strike to protest wage cuts and poor working conditions, Labour Day became a federal holiday in the US. Six days after the strike ended, President Grover Cleveland signed the statute designating Labour Day as a national holiday to calm tensions and enhance government-labour ties.
The meaning of Labour Day has changed throughout time. In many nations, it’s a day for political rallies and working-class celebrations. Workers and individuals who battled for improved working conditions and labour rights are honoured today.
Spring festivities and parades are held on Labour Day in certain nations. In others, it’s a day for picnics, barbecues, and family reunions. Still, the holiday honours the labour movement and working class.
