Some of you might be aware that May 1 is a public holiday, or if you aren't, then today you have learned that it is. Well, why is it declared a public holiday? Because the international worker's day is celebrated on May 1 every year.
You got the answer straightforward on when the international worker’s day is celebrated, then what is going to be more fascinating in this article? Okay, let me tell you that just knowing the date alone is not enough to celebrate it if you have planned to do so. You must also be aware of the story or history, whatever on why it is celebrated. To know the ropes and learn the ropes, we present you with brief information about the international worker's day. Now let's jump into the topic without adieu.
Why is International worker's day celebrated?
Before answering this question, let me give you a hint. Let you assume you are a 9 to 5 worker. Well, you are remembered and celebrated on this day. Well, International worker's day is also called Labour's day, Mayday.
As mentioned earlier, you might be a 9 - 5 worker, this is the usual thing, most of the people work in this schedule, and some might have different shifts but still, the working hours would be in and around 8 hours.
But this was not the situation about a century ago. The rise of industrialisation in the 19th century made the workers work for more than 15 hours a day. Yes, you read that right. So on May 1, 1886, the labour union in Chicago, US, went on a strike demanding reduced working hours from 15 hours to 8 hours. The workers also demanded paid holidays, fair salaries and small breaks during working hours.
Though the protest went on peacefully, on the third day, it became total chaos, and it ended in a bomb blast killing few people. This strike didn't have an immediate impact, but it spread the word in many parts of the world, including India. So the demand for an 8-hour working day was put forth in many countries by all labor unions.
How is international worker's day celebrated?
The bomb blast killed several labourers, which is why labour day is celebrated to remember the Haymarket massacre in Chicago. Later, the US recognised labour day as a public holiday in 1894, and since then, this day is celebrated in more than 90 countries worldwide which also includes India. Also, in 1916, the US government approved the 8-hour work timings after years of protests.
In India, the first Labour's day was organised and celebrated on May 1, 1923, in Chennai by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. Even today, in many countries, big rallies are conducted by labourers stressing the government to impose labour-friendly laws. But the last two years, due to the pandemic, this day is celebrated online.
Well, this marks the end of the article. It is also noted that in India, the same May 1 is celebrated as Maharashtra day and Gujarat day. This is because, on this day in 1960, both the regions were split based on linguistic lines, and they attained statehood.
I hope you got some exciting information on why we need to celebrate international worker's day. Remember, the freedom and the things which you enjoy today wasn’t a cup of tea early, if you are enjoying today’s life then be thankful for what you have.
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