NPR

Here Are 3 Pivotal Moments In Workers' History To Remember This Labor Day

From a deadly factory fire to a presidential showdown with strikers, these major labor events became central to U.S. history, the modern labor movement and the rights afforded to workers.
Striking members of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization hold a rally on Aug. 6, 1981, on Long Island, N.Y. Nearly 13,000 air-traffic controllers walked off the job and most were fired by President Ronald Reagan after refusing to return to work.

Labor Day became an official federal holiday in 1894, thanks to President Grover Cleveland. At its core, the day is meant to celebrate the common worker.

But hear Labor Day and what comes to mind? Grilled hot dogs, the end of summer? Maybe back-to-school sales?

"Labor Day should be a moment when we all reflect the critical contributions of working people to the political, economic and cultural development of this country," said Claudrena Harold, a history professor at the University of Virginia.

Three moments in labor history, in particular, are central to U.S. history, the modern labor movement, and today's workplace, according

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