- 1 May in many countries
- Also called May Day
- A holiday in many countries
Where it began
The day grew from the fight for an eight-hour working day. Workers in many lands asked for eight hours of work, eight hours of rest and eight hours for themselves.
In 1886 workers in Chicago, United States, joined a large strike for the eight-hour day, starting on 1 May. Those events are remembered on this day.
In 1889 a meeting of workers' groups in Paris chose 1 May as a day for workers around the world. May Day was also an old spring festival in Europe, so the date had a happy feel too.
How it grew over time
1886
Workers in Chicago strike for an eight-hour working day from 1 May.
1889
A meeting in Paris names 1 May as an international day for workers.
1923
The first May Day in India is held in Madras, now Chennai.
20th century
Many countries make 1 May a public holiday.
Today
It is a holiday in a large number of countries across the world.
How it is celebrated in different places
India
Known as Uzhaipalar Dhinam in Tamil Nadu. Maharashtra and Gujarat also mark their state days on 1 May.
Europe
Workers march, and old May Day customs like flowers and maypoles live on in some places.
United States and Canada
Their Labor Day is on the first Monday of September instead, with parades and picnics.
Labour Day moments
Labour Day today
Today it is a day to thank everyone who works, from farm and factory to office and home. Many people rest with family, and some join rallies and gatherings.
