Highlighted by parades and backyard barbecues, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer in a leisurely and restful way for many Americans, but the origins of the national holiday reflect a darker time for workers and include unrest over oppressive working conditions and a strike that turned violent.
Amid the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century, workers toiled for at least 12 hours a day, six days a week in factories, mines, railroads, and mills.
