Labour Day started as a celebration of workers' achievements, stemming from the labour union movement, particularly the eight-hour day movement.
Origins in the Labour Movement
Labour Day's roots are deeply intertwined with the labour union movement and its fight for better working conditions. Here's a breakdown:
- The Eight-Hour Day Movement: The core principle was advocating for a balanced life for workers, specifically "eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest." This movement pushed for legal limitations on the workday.
- Recognition of Workers' Contributions: Labour Day was intended to publicly acknowledge and celebrate the social and economic contributions of workers to society.
Labour Day: A Summary
In summary, Labour Day emerged from the efforts of labour unions, particularly the eight-hour day movement, which sought to improve workers' lives and recognize their value.
