Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States that celebrates the social and economic achievements of American workers. It is observed on the first Monday in September and is often considered the unofficial end of summer. The holiday recognizes the contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States.
The roots of Labor Day can be traced back to the late 19th century when the trade union and labor movements were growing. Various groups of trade unionists chose different days to celebrate labor, and in the United States, a September holiday called Labor Day was first proposed in the early 1880s. The date was chosen because it fell roughly halfway between the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving.
In 1884, the Knights of Labor adopted a resolution that the first Monday in September be considered Labor Day. The idea quickly spread, and by the following year, Labor Day celebrations were being held in several states. President Grover Cleveland signed a bill into law on June 28, 1894, declaring Labor Day a national holiday. Some historians believe that Cleveland was motivated by political advantages and the need to secure the support of working-class voters.
Labor Day had already become an official holiday in 24 states before it became a federal holiday. The holiday is often marked by parades, speeches, and political rallies, although its significance has changed over the years, with many people now viewing it as a long weekend for family get-togethers and the end of summer.
