International Worker’s Day in many countries of the world is celebrated on May 1. Officially, the International Worker’s Day or Labor Day is celebrated in 142 countries around the globe.
This holiday takes its roots in the American city of Chicago, where a large-scale protest rally of workers took place on May 1, 1886. Tired of unbearable conditions, people demanded a limitation of the number of working hours to 8 per day. The rally ended with the bloody clashes.
US authorities, who were not going to cut the 15-hour working day, ordered the police to take harsh measures against the protesters. As a result, massive fire was opened, which claimed hundreds of lives. Despite this, workers continued to hold protests, demanding that their difficult working conditions be taken into account.
Such mass demonstrations did not go unnoticed. The Congress of the Second International, which was held in Paris in 1889, decided to name May 1 as the International Workers’ Solidarity Day to commemorate those, who decided to repulse the existing system.
In addition, it was decided at the Congress that people of all states have the right to go to rallies annually on May 1 and put forward their demands. Thus, the Labor Day was officially recognized at the state level.
Each country has its own traditions of celebrating May 1 day. For example, young Spaniards present their spouses first spring flowers on this day.
Germany marks the day with large-scale celebrations, fairs and dance shows. In addition, there is a wonderful tradition – young men plant a tree in front of the window of their beloved one.
On the night of April 30 to May 1, giant bonfires are lit in Swedish cities, where everything old accumulated all year round is burned. Dances are accompanying this tradition. The next morning, various rallies in support of the working class are held.
Thus, May 1 is a wonderful holiday that unites different nations. It does not matter what kind of celebration are held in the country. In any case, this is a bright spring holiday that brings a lot of positive emotions.
IPE Club congratulates everyone who dedicates himself/herself to the work. We wish you never to spare energy and efforts for great and good deeds, always do only what you like, and meet every day with inspiration and enthusiasm.
