The Meaning, Behind May Day.
May 1, known as May Day, is an official
holiday in 66 countries across the world.
May Day originated as an ancient pagan
celebration of spring, known as “Beltane.".
It took on a different meaning in the
19th century when it became connected
to the labor rights movement.
On May 1, 1886, more than 300,000 workers
in the U.S. went on strike in response to
growing inhumane working conditions.
This culminated in the Haymarket Riot of Chicago, where police and protestors clashed,
resulting in a national wave of controversy.
This event widely impacted labor
movements around the world and is
now often a day of protest for labor unions.
However, some countries still recognize
the original traditions of May Day and
celebrate with festivities and various customs.
A main custom is the maypole dance, which originated as a fertility ritual and involves dancing around a pole with colorful streamers and ribbons