What historical event led to the establishment of Labor Day as a national holiday?

The establishment of Labor Day as a national holiday is most directly linked to the labor movement’s response to events such as the Haymarket Riot of 1886. This riot in Chicago was a significant labor protest advocating for workers' rights, particularly the eight-hour workday. The violence that erupted during the demonstrations underscored the tense relationship between laborers and employers, highlighting the struggles faced by workers at the time. In response to these events and the broader labor movement, Labor Day was proposed as a way to honor the contributions of workers and their fight for better conditions.

While other events like the Great Depression and the Industrial Revolution played a role in shaping labor relations and workers’ rights, they do not directly correspond to the establishment of Labor Day. The Boston Tea Party is primarily associated with colonial resistance to British taxation rather than labor issues. Hence, the Haymarket Riot is recognized as a pivotal moment that brought attention to the need for a holiday that celebrates labor, leading to the official designation of Labor Day.