What is Labor Day? Why is it celebrated in the United States? Let's find out.
History of Labor Day:
Back in the late 19th century, workers' rights in the U.S. weren't so much of a thing. Shifts in factories, where a large percentage of the population worked, lasted 10-12 hours, and conditions were dangerous. Workers wanted a break from that. And so the first Labor Day was born, on the first Monday of September. It was made into a national holiday on June 28, 1894, though it only guaranteed the holiday for federal workers. But since then, all 50 states, D.C., and the U.S. territories have made it a required holiday in their respective jurisdictions.
Celebration:
During Labor Day, there are many forms of celebration throughout the country. Parades, picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, and camping trips are some of them. Because Labor Day is on a Monday, workers and students are given a long weekend. Labor Day has also become an important retail period. Capitalizing on the number of available shoppers, retailers offer Labor Day sales.
Fun Facts:
It is debated who came up with the idea of Labor Day, Secretary of the Central Labor Union Matthew Maguire, or Vice President Peter McGuire of the American Federation of Labor.
An alternate date was suggested for the holiday (May 1), but was never selected due to its close proximity to the Haymarket affair.
Labor Day isn't the only holiday fixed on a Monday. Four others, including Memorial Day, always fall on a Monday.
Labor Day is generally considered to be the unofficial end of the summer season. Many schools start around this time, people go on their last vacations for a while, and sport seasons begin.
We at YNH hope everybody celebrating has a great Labor Day!
By Mihir Gupta
Wonderful summary of Labor Day. I also like your use of a picture in the thumbnail.
Good read
Thank you for explaining