May 01 International workers day, commemorates the historic struggle of working people throughout the world, and is recognized in most countries. All the privileged workers enjoy today- a minimum wage, safety laws and 8 hour workday- came about due to the sacrifice of the workers in 1886. On May 2. 1886, police fired into a crowd of strikers at the McCormick Harvest Machine Company, Chicago, killing at least one striker, seriously wounding five or six others and injuring an undetermined number. From the beginning of the industrial revolution, people in factories have worked very long shifts, lasting up to fourteen or even more hours a day. In the 1880's a new movement calling for an 8 hours day inspired both labor unions and unorganized workers. The events of May day 1886 is a remind that workers will continue to be exploited until they stand up and speak out to gain better working conditions, better pay and better lives.
- Why do we remember May Day?
- What significant changes happened due to that event?
- How did the event happen?
- What can be done in present day as a result of that event?
- Mention the moral of that event.
Ans:
(i) We remember May day as it reminds us about the historic struggle of working people throughout the
world
(ii) All the fortunate workers enjoy today- a minimum wage, safety laws and 8 hour workday due to that
event.
(iii) Police fired into a crowd of strikers at the McCormick Harvest Machine Company, Chicago, killing at
least one striker, seriously wounding five or six others and injuring an undetermined number.
(iv) The events of May day 1886 is a remind that workers will continue to be subjugated until they stand
up and speak out to gain better working conditions, better pay and better lives.
(v) Workers will not be ever down in term of their rights.