Labor Day in the United States is a federal holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the contributions and achievements of American workers and the labor movement, which advocated for fair wages, reasonable hours, and safer working conditions. The holiday was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union.

Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894, following the Pullman Strike—a nationwide railroad strike that turned violent—and President Grover Cleveland’s efforts to reconcile with the labor movement. The day is often marked by parades, picnics, barbecues, and other community events. It also symbolizes the unofficial end of summer, with many schools and businesses starting their fall schedules after the holiday.

Labor Day weekend is a popular time for travel, and the holiday is associated with retail sales, especially back-to-school promotions. While its origins are deeply rooted in the labor movement, today, Labor Day is also a time for leisure and relaxation, with many people enjoying the extended weekend.

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