1830: Mary Harris “Mother” Jones born in County Cork, Ireland
1886: Eight-hour day demonstration in Chicago and other cities begins tradition of May Day as international labor holiday
1931: New York City’s Empire State Building officially opens after 3,400 workers, mostly immigrants, and hundreds of Mohawk iron workers participated in its construction. Five workers died during construction.
Want Labor history sent to your inbox every week? Sign up for our free newsletter!