41. Some believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, was the first to come up with a holiday for workers that later turned into the first Labor Day celebration in 1882. Do you think someone at the bottom of a company could convince an entire nation that he and his co-workers deserved a holiday? Why or why not?
42. Others believe that Peter J. McGuire, a cofounder of the American Federation of Labor, came up with the holiday after seeing a similar celebration in Toronto, Canada. Have you ever been inspired after seeing someone do something cool? What was it and did you ever try to do it yourself? Why or why not?
43. Create a conversation between one of the two possible founders of the holiday and his co-workers, discussing why there should be a holiday for workers. Does the co-worker agree with him? Why or why not?
44. New York City hosted the first celebration of the holiday in 1882. Why do you think the Big Apple is the starting place for so many parades and festivals? Do you think a movement or holiday could start in your city? Why or why not?
45. A violent labor strike in Pullman, Illinois, in 1894 led to 13 deaths. Congress tried to reconcile by passing a law to make Labor Day a national holiday. Why do you think it sometimes takes something bad to happen before a law passes?
46. The initial proposal for the Labor Day holiday set out to create a public exhibition of the strength and togetherness of the labor organization. What are some examples of things a team of laborers may have created in your town? How could you express your appreciation for their hard work?
47. Labor unions have become less popular over the years as companies have paid more attention to the rights of workers. Why do you think companies have made more an effort to treat workers more respectfully? How would you want to be treated if you worked a 9-to-5 job?
48. Imagine that you were marching with your family on the first official Labor Day in 1894. How would the holiday be different from the one celebrated today? Which would you enjoy better and why?
49. Teaching is said to be one of the toughest jobs out there. There are more than six million teachers working hard in the United States trying to educate their students. Imagine how hard it would be to be the teacher one of your classes. Do you think you would be able to handle the challenge? Why or why not?
50. Around the time of the original holiday, many people worked in factories. How different do you think your life would be if both of your parents worked long hours at a factory every single day? Do you think your parents would enjoy it? Why or why not?
Use the above prompts or article as inspiration to write a story or other short piece.
