Labor Day and the Labor Movement

The video discusses the modernization of labor rights during the Industrial Revolution in the US and Canada, highlighting the illegal status of unions in Canada until 1872. It traces the origins of Labor Day, starting with labor parades in New York City in 1882, and its eventual recognition as a federal holiday in 1894 following the Pullman Strike. The video also covers the evolution of Labor Day and labor unions through the 20th century, noting the decline in unionized labor forces and the holiday's current status as a leisure day for most Americans.

What was a significant consequence of the Industrial Revolution in the US and Canada?

• Shorter work hours

• Increased wages

• Immediate unionization

• Longer work hours and pay cuts

When did Canada legalize unions?

• 1900

• 1872

• 1882

• 1894

Who was inspired by Toronto's labor celebrations to suggest a parade in New York?

• Grover Cleveland

• Peter J. Maguire

• John McDonald

• Matthew Maguire

What was the original date chosen for the first Labor Day parade in New York City?

• July 4th

• First Monday in September

• September 5th

• Thanksgiving

Which state was the first to legalize Labor Day as a holiday?

• Oregon

• California

• Illinois

• New York

What event in 1894 led to Labor Day becoming a federal holiday?

• A labor union meeting

• A railway strike

• A political election

• A natural disaster

By the 1950s, what fraction of the US labor force was unionized?

• A quarter

• Two-thirds

• Half

• Over a third

What was a key focus of Labor Day rallies during the peak of unionization?

• Increased taxes

• Shorter holidays

• Safer working conditions

• More vacation days

What happened to many factories in the latter half of the 20th century?

• They expanded

• They reduced work hours

• They closed

• They increased wages

How do most Americans view Labor Day today?

• As a day for increased work

• As a time for union meetings

• As a leisure holiday

• As a day for political rallies