Marking the unofficial end of summer, Labor Day has long been highlighted by parades, backyard barbecues, and leisurely pursuits. However, the national holiday’s origins reflect a darker time for workers and include unrest over oppressive working conditions and a strike that turned violent.
During the Industrial Revolution, after the Civil War, many workers toiled for at least 12 hours a day, seven days a week, on railroads and in factories, mines, and mills just to make ends meet.
While the hours were grueling, the working conditions made their days even worse, which ultimately led to the growth of labor unions.
Appealing for shorter workweeks and better conditions, the labor movement arose and escalated in the 1860s and 1870s….