Historical Events tagged with "eight-hour day"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Eight-Hour Workday and Sunday Law Enacted

July 11th, 1919 105 years ago

The Netherlands established the eight-hour workday and free Sunday as legal rights for workers, significantly transforming labor conditions. This legislation, aimed at improving workers' well-being, was passed after years of labor movements and strikes advocating for better working hours. The introduction of these laws not only marked a pivotal point for Dutch workers but also reflected broader European trends in labor rights during this period.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Bay View Massacre: Workers Demanding Eight-Hour Day

May 5th, 1886 138 years ago

A labor protest in Milwaukee escalated on May 5, 1886, when workers advocating for an eight-hour workday were shot at by Wisconsin National Guardsmen. The demonstration at Bay View drew attention to the broader labor movement seeking better working conditions. Tensions had been rising as workers organized for their rights and demanded a reduction in working hours, culminating in this violent clash with state forces. The tragic incident marked a significant moment in labor history, reflecting the struggles faced by workers during this era.

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