Laborious Activities

Happy Labor Day!  Sometimes associated with the end of summer, the Labor Day holiday came to prominence during the 1800s.  As the driving force of the American economy moved from agriculture to industrial, workers, some as young as five or six years old, were forced to work twelve to eighteen hours a day.  The conditions under such employment were appalling: unsanitary conditions, no access to fresh air, and other nightmarish conditions.  As a result, it is no surprise and wonder Unions were born and rose to great power and influence.  Often workers would strike for better pay and working conditions, taking unpaid leave in order to participate in a protest or march.  In modern times, working conditions are a far cry from what history books reveal.  Health codes are in place and firmly enforced.  Building codes strongly dictate sanitation and proper ventilation.  Labor laws regulate child labor, and offer guidelines for overtime pay and other benefits.  Currently I am working two jobs, and sometimes I think it is tough to do so.  Maybe I should have lived in the 1800s when working in hazardous conditions may have cost me my very life.  I am thankful my forebears forged the path ahead of them for the benefit of those who would follow.  Give second thought to the true meaning of the holiday.  It isn't simply a recognized day off from work or school.  The History(.com) website gives a wonderful write-up on the day.  Check it out.  Until then, have a great Labor Day!

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