Labor Day, observed on the first Monday in September, has long been recognized as a holiday dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. For many, it marks the unofficial end of summer, but its origins tell a deeper story of struggle, solidarity, and progress.

The Roots of Labor Day

The idea for Labor Day grew out of the late 19th century labor movement. During the Industrial Revolution, American workers often endured grueling 12-hour shifts, seven days a week, in unsafe and unsanitary working conditions. Even children as young as five or six worked in factories, mills, and mines for meager wages.

As workers began to organize into unions, they fought for shorter workdays, safer workplaces, and fair pay. Protests and strikes spread across the country. One of the

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