Do you know why we celebrate Labor Day? Some people think it's to signify the end of Summer. But actually, it's a day dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It was first passed as a legal holiday on June 28, 1894.
How did the idea even come about? Working conditions then were unsafe, unsanitary, they worked long hours, and were treated poorly. They also made children work since it was legal then. Many factories were dark, dirty, and dangerous. Driven by poverty, these children were required to work long days (as many as 18 hours).
Eventually, people began protesting against their current work conditions. After a long battle, things slowly began to change in America and working conditions improved, child labor laws were put in place, and we now celebrate the achievements of our American Workers.
What does Labor Day mean to you? Please respond in the comment section below.
Labor Day to me doesn't mean that much because i wasn't alive for those years back then but my grandparents described to me that is was exactly what it said in the article they prevented child labor laws from kids working such long days i think that was when the laws came up for 15 and 16 to work at mcdonalds for a first job
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you didn't have to experience what children did during this time! That's great that your grandparents educated you on this as well!
DeleteGood job Gary!
i think labor day means so much to me because it's about americans
ReplyDeleteWhat about Americans? Is it about our birthdays? Our ability to go to college? Our famous meals? Be more specific Hunter. I'm glad you're proud to be an American but you need to refer to the article for more details.
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