Labor Day officially
became a federal holiday in 1894, and it is traditionally observed on the first Monday in September. While Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers and was created by the federal labor movement, it also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans and includes a three-day weekend celebrated with parties, parades, and athletic events.
In the late 1800s, many
Americans were working 12 hours a day, seven days per week and often in low paying and physically demanding jobs. Young children were working in farms, factories and mines, with often unsafe conditions. With workers and labor unions pushing back against these working conditions, organized strikes and rallies were held and those became more prominent and vocal.
