When is International Workers' Day?
Monday May 1stEvery year on May 1st, International Workers' Day aims to honor workers and the working classes in many countries around the world. Labour Day or May Day is also known as this day.
In 1760, a major event called the Industrial Revolution began in Britain, in 1760. This event swept the globe and lasted until 1840. This event was popular around the world and lasted until 1840. Agriculture societies became more industrialized during this period. The railroad, cotton gin, and electricity changed society forever. During the Industrial Revolution, millions of workers around the world were desperately needed.
Unfortunately, many employers treated their employees unfairly, paid incorrect salaries, provided poor working conditions, and coerced laborers to work long hours during this time. Any employees were able to work 16 hours a day. Someone to stand up for their rights was what the working class needed. In 1864, the International Workingmen's Union formed in London. Workers were encouraged to organize, but also the right to an 8-hour working day, and the organization was fighting for the right for employees to organize and also the right for an 8-hour working day. In 1871, workers in France imitated tradition and initiated their own labour movement..
When Pope Leo XIII wrote, "On the Condition of the Working Classes," he became involved in the labor movement. He advocated for shorter work hours, fair wages, elimination of child labor, and the ability for the state to enforce labor laws. Eventually, the global labour movement helped to establish a 5-day workweek, paid holidays, and an 8-hour workday. Today, many employees around the world are enjoying all the rights that the labour movement fought so hard for.
