History of Labor Day: A Day of Patriotic Celebration

By: Allison Taber 

The 19th century labor movement for workers demands better work conditions and shorter work days. 

Labor day has a long line of historic events that so far goes back to the 19th century where citizens of the U.S. fought for better working conditions and shorter work days. Therefore they went on strike to fight for these changes in work forces. Many fought alongside each other whether it was in the streets or sidewalks alongside buildings or the main roads.

When labor day came to be an official holiday it was first celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1883. This initially took place in New York city in line with the central labor law.

By the time of 1894, 23 more states had adopted Labor day into their important holidays. 

“President Glover Cleveland signed a law to Celebrate Labor day the first Monday of September every year. This law was initially signed by President Glover on June 28, 1894.” said by the U.S. Department Of Labor 

Labor day used to be celebrated with parades, get-togethers, parties, festivities, and many other forms of celebration nationwide. 

Today most people use Labor day as an excuse to stay home and drink most of the day. While others still revert back to the historical celebration of labor day trying to keep the tradition alive. California used to celebrate with parades but now most places in California don't care to throw that type of celebration. Some families prefer to spend it at home, often with small, relaxed get-togethers. 

Labor day goes back many years but yet the celebration never fully dies. People all around the world have made it nationwide, making the holiday a big highlight especially in school systems and in everyday remembrance of the legacy of many traditions and celebrations.