May Day: A History of Workers’ Struggle

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May Day Labour’s day The Power of Solidarity: May Day Around the World

International Labour Day, also known as May Day or Labour Day, is a celebration honoring workers and the labour movement that takes place on May 1st every year in many countries. It’s a day to recognize the contributions that workers make to the economy and society, and to advocate for fair treatment and rights for all workers.

Celebrating May Day Labour’s day: A Day to Honor Workers.

International Labour Day, also known as May Day or Labour Day, is a celebration honoring workers and the labour movement that takes place on May 1st every year in many countries. It’s a day to recognize the contributions that workers make to the economy and society, and to advocate for fair treatment and rights for all workers.

  • Late 19th Century: The movement gained momentum around the late 1800s. Some say the idea for a dedicated day came from Peter J. McGuire, inspired by a Canadian labour festival .
  • Haymarket Affair (1886): A pivotal moment arrived in 1886 with the Haymarket Affair in Chicago. Workers began a nationwide strike for an eight-hour day on May 1st. The event turned violent, and while the details are debated, it became a symbol of the struggle for workers’ rights
  • International Recognition (1889): Three years later, in 1889, an international socialist congress designated May 1st as “International Workers’ Day” to commemorate the Haymarket Affair and advocate for the eight-hour day.
  • Labour Day vs. May Day: It’s interesting to note that in the United States and Canada, Labour Day is celebrated on a different date, typically in September. This arose partly due to the socialist associations of May Day .
  • To know more about all international days
  • So, May Day became a rallying point for workers’ rights, with demonstrations and celebrations held on May 1st around the world.