On May 1, 1886, over 200,000 workers in Chicago, USA, launched a massive strike to fight for the eight-hour workday. At that time, workers were forced to labor 12 to 16 hours or even longer each day. Faced with harsh working conditions, they united and took to the streets, chanting the slogan: “Eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, eight hours for what we will.”
The strike was met with brutal suppression. Several labor leaders were arrested, and some workers sacrificed their lives in the conflict. Yet the workers’ perseverance was not in vain. Through arduous and unyielding struggle, they ultimately won the victory for the eight-hour workday.
To commemorate this historic workers’ movement, the Second International convened its congress in Paris in July 1889 and officially proclaimed May 1 as “International Labor Day.” On May 1, 1890, workers across Europe and America were the first to respond, taking to the streets in grand demonstrations and rallies to fight for their legitimate rights and interests. Since then, this day has become a shared holiday for working people around the world.
Labor Day is not only a remembrance of history but also a tribute to every worker. It reminds us that every contribution deserves respect, and every effort should be valued.
Post time: Apr-30-2026