History of Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September annually in the United States. Why it is observed in September—and not on May 1 (International Workers’ Day) as in many other countries)—goes back to the close of the 19th-century labor movement.
Labor Day came about when Americans sought to honor American laborers, especially those of the trade unions fighting for decent pay, fewer work hours, and better work conditions.
Even the first (History of Labor Day) parade was called for by the Central Labor Union of New York City on September 5, 1882. Thousands of workers paraded to push the workers’ rights cause.
Union representatives chose early September because it fell right between Independence Day (July 4) and Thanksgiving (late November). It gave laborers a desired vacation at the end of the summer but did not conflict with other significant national holidays.
After years of statewide commemorations and after the violent Pullman Strike of 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making (History of Labor Day) a national holiday, emphatically placing it on the first Monday of September.
(History of Labor Day) is likely one of the most recognizable national holidays of the United States of America and is always celebrated on the first Monday of September. It is the unofficial end of summer and is a day of family gatherings and parades and barbecues. But what is obscured behind this long break is the big tale of conflict, unity, and the labor movement that transpired and shaped American society forever.
The Origins History of Labor Day
It was a tough time at the end of the 19th century for American labor. Fast growth was brought about by the Industrial Revolution, but so were dangerous work conditions, low rates of pay, and long workdays. Workers were laboring 12 to 16-hour workdays, six or seven days weekly, under dangerous conditions. Child labor was widespread and labor had little protection and few rights.
Amid these struggles, workers began unifying labor unions and conducting protests with claims of decent wages, greater protection, and fewer workdays. This growing movement was the genesis of what is now called Labor Day.
When was the holiday for workers first celebrated in the United States?
It was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City with a parade organized by the Central Labor Union.
Why is the American workers’ holiday held in September?
It was chosen to fall between Independence Day and Thanksgiving, giving people a break in late summer.
Which president made the workers’ holiday a national observance?
President Grover Cleveland signed it into law in 1894 after the Pullman Strike.
Is Labor Day the same as May Day?
No. Labor Day (September) is celebrated mainly in the U.S., while May Day (May 1) is observed internationally.
What does Labor Day symbolize today?
It honors the contributions of American workers, while also marking the unofficial end of summer.