The first Monday of September is Labor Day in the United States of America, a federal holiday honoring and recognizing the American labor movement and the contributions of workers to the development and achievements of the U.S. It also traditionally marks the end of summer and the beginning of the school year.

Thanks to the rise of trade unions and labor movements in the 19th century, labor leaders opted to set aside a day for a public parade honoring laborers in September of 1882, although who exactly was responsible for the idea is unclear. As the popularity of the idea spread, Oregon became the first state to set aside an official Labor Day in 1887. Thirty states had already officially recognized Labor Day when in 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a bill making it a holiday for federal workers. In the 20th century, all states, the District of Columbia, and all U.S. territories recognize Labor Day as a statuary holiday for everyone.

Canada also celebrates its Labour Day on the first Monday of September, but most countries hold theirs on May 1.

More Information

Labor Day (Wikipedia)

Also see

• September (month)