The Haymarket Affair: The Origins of May Day

May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is deeply intertwined with the labour movement in Chicago, mainly through the historical events of the Haymarket Affair in 1886. May Day is celebrated annually on May 1 to honour the contributions and struggles of workers worldwide.

The Haymarket Affair began as a peaceful rally supporting the eight-hour workday at Haymarket Square in Chicago on May 1, 1886. Thousands of workers gathered to demand better working conditions and fair wages. However, the rally turned violent when a bomb was thrown into the crowd, resulting in chaos and bloodshed. The incident led to the deaths of several civilians and police officers.

In the aftermath of the Haymarket Affair, a wave of anti-labour sentiment swept the country, resulting in the arrest, trial, and execution of several labour leaders known as the Haymarket Martyrs. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence linking the accused to the bombing, many were convicted and sentenced to death, sparking international outrage and protests.

The events of the Haymarket Affair played a crucial role in establishing May Day as a day to commemorate the struggle for workers’ rights and honour the memory of those who fought for better working conditions. The solidarity and resilience displayed by the workers in Chicago during the Haymarket Affair inspired labour movements worldwide to advocate for fair labour practices and social justice.

The origins of May Day in Chicago highlight the sacrifices and courage of workers who stood up against injustice and fought for a more equitable society. The legacy of the Haymarket Affair resonates today, reminding us of the importance of solidarity, activism, and collective action in the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights.