The Labor Day History You Don’t Know

American Labor Day is celebrated every year on the first Monday of September but how many of us know the bomb blast behind the Labor Day history? Get to know why Labor Day is celebrated now.

How Did Labor Day Start?

The history of Labor Day began in the U.S. during the Industrial Revolution. 

In the 1800s, people used to work for 12 hours a day for seven days straight to earn a living. Even children as young as 5 years were employed despite the ban on child labor. 

In the late 18th  century, the factories saw a rise in the strength of labor unions who voiced their concerns through rallies and protests. The poor and immigrants were the most affected workers given the sanitary conditions, lack of fresh air, and proper breaks.

Labor Day Origin

The rising workplace deaths and mishaps caused an uproar among the laborers leading the first labor day parade to be hosted on the 5th of September 1882 when 10,000 workers took unpaid holidays to march for their workplace rights. 

The final violent protest caused a bomb blast and police shooting in 1886 after the police had tried to disperse a labor protest in Haymarket, Chicago. This incident caused the deaths of 7 policemen, 4 civilians, and several other injuries. 

What’s the Purpose of Labor Day?

Though Labor Day was legalized by many states, Congress hadn’t legalized the holiday for 12 years. This gave rise to the Pullman(Railway Car Company) Boycott on June 26 causing riots and unrest in the nation which also resulted in deaths and railroad traffic. The federal government legalized the holiday later to solve the labor issue and bring back peace.   

Thus, Labor Day is celebrated every year to thank the forefathers for their sacrifices and fights against industries to get us our labor rights.

Who Do We Honor on Labor Day?

Labor Day is celebrated to honor laborers and working-class families. Now that we know why Labor Day is celebrated, here is an interesting quiz to test yourself.