This Sunday is Labour Day. Most of you are happy to get a day off on Monday, but have you ever wondered how this holiday came about?
The origins of Labour Day can be traced back to the Knights of Labour in the United States, a labour organisation formed by a group of tailors in 1869.
The organisation was set up to fight for labour rights and pressure the Congress into implementing labour reforms - in particular, an eight-hour workday.
At the time, the onset of industrialisation had sparked rapid development. Workers were forced to work long hours - 12 to 14 hours a day - with little pay and no benefits.
The Knights of Labour quickly garnered support from workers and other industries also set up unions.
On September 5, 1882, the Knights of Labour organised a parade in New York City.
