International Workers’ Day

International Workers’ Day or Labour Day is celebrated yearly on 1^st May. This day honours the hard work and achievements of the working class. May Day is observed as a national holiday in many countries. International Workers’ Day also helps the labour class understand their rights and fight for equality in the workspace.

This article discusses the importance of Labour Day and its history in detail. Individuals aspiring for competitive exams like UPSC 2024 can refer to the following discussion for preparation.

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Important Facts About International Workers’ Day

• International Workers’ Day became associated with the labour movement in the late 19th century. Trade unions and socialist groups in the United States celebrated Labour Day on 1^st May.
• The Marxist International Socialist Congress demanded fixed working hours for workers. They demanded an 8-hour work culture for the health and well-being of every worker.
• Individuals should know that May Day was first celebrated on 1st May 1890.
• People protested against the mistreatment of workers like poor working conditions, workers’ rights violations, low wages, child labour, and straining work hours.
• On 14th July 1889, the first International Congress of Socialist Parties in Europe declared May Day. This was a tribute to the Haymarket affair.
• The International Socialist Congress at Amsterdam called for the legal institution of the 8-hour work culture. They asked proletarian organisations of all countries to stop working on 1^st May.
• Workers in Paris celebrate Workers’ Day of International Unity and Solidarity on 1^st May.
• Europe considered May Day as a celebration of rural traditional farmers’ festivals. However, later it became a part of a modern labour movement.
• Eastern bloc nations and the Soviet Union started celebrating Labour Day post the Russian Revolution of 1917.
• Individuals celebrate Labour Day on the first Monday of September in the US and Canada.
• Individuals should know that ideologies of Socialism and Marxism inspired many communist and socialist groups. The movement encouraged many peasants and workers to fight for their rights.

When is International Workers’ Day Celebrated in India?

Individuals should know that India celebrates International Workers’ Day on 1^st May like every other country. However, the history of Labour Day in India is slightly different from other countries.

• Indians celebrated the first Labour’s Day in Chennai in 1923.
• The Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan conducted Labour’s Day.
• Communist leader Malayapuram Singaravelu Chettiar suggested that Government consider 1^st May as a national holiday.
• Kamgar Din, Kamgar Divas, and Antrarashtriya Shramik Divas are the other names of International Workers’ Day in India.

Hope this article on International Workers’ Day will help individuals understand the importance of this celebration. Individuals can check news channels to know how different countries celebrate happy International Workers’ Day.

Students aspiring to crack UPSC prelims or similar exams can refer to this article for a general overview. However, checking the educational portals would be beneficial as they offer a detailed guide on this topic.

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