How and Why is Labor Day?

Fact/Event Labor Day was caused by violent clashes between labor and police during the Haymarket riot.

Details that Stand Out: The idea first became public in 1882.

What do I think about it: I think it was a great celebration of the contributions of the civilians and it was very kind of congress.

Why do I feel this way: Well, the civilians worked the most in history during that time and were paid the same.

Historical records suggest that Peter J. McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, was among the first to propose setting aside a national day to honor workers. His vision eventually led to the establishment of Labor Day, a holiday that celebrates the achievements and contributions of workers across the country. However, the history behind this day is also marked by conflict and tragedy, reflecting the intense struggles that laborers faced in their pursuit of recognition and rights. The fight for fair wages, reasonable working hours, and better conditions came at a high cost, and this is where the true essence of Labor Day lies. …show more content…
Unionists had organized a protest in Haymarket Square to speak out against police brutality during a strike for an eight-hour workday. What was meant to be a peaceful demonstration turned deadly when a bomb was thrown into the crowd, killing seven police officers and injuring many others. In the chaos that followed, police and workers exchanged gunfire, leaving more bloodshed in the streets. The tragedy drew national attention to the labor movement’s struggles, highlighting the dangerous conditions workers endured to demand basic rights. In the aftermath, eight anarchists were arrested, four of whom were executed despite the lack of concrete evidence linking them to the