Labor Day: From Protest to Picnics

Read about the original intent of the celebration of Labor Day, instituted by the Central Labor Union in 1882 as a way to bring together labor unions of all sorts to show solidarity and the power of union organization. The first Labor Day celebration took place in New York City, but within a few years spread throughout the country. This essay recounts the evolution of Labor Day from a day that had strong ties to organized labor to one celebrated with picnics as the unofficial end of summer.

courtesy of Knovation