Please excuse the brevity of this diary, as I am at work and do not have time to do the subject proper justice. Perhaps others can flesh out the history a bit.
I haven't seen this mentioned yet today, but today is May Day, a day of celebration for laborers and union members all around the globe. From wikipedia:
In addition, May Day in the United States is commonly regarded — at least by certain groups — as a commemoration of the execution of the Haymarket martyrs who were arrested after the Haymarket Riot of 1886 in Chicago, Illinois, which occurred on May 4, but was the culmination of labor unrest which began on May 1. The date consequently became established as an anarchist and socialist holiday during the 20th century, and in these circles it is often known as International Workers' Day or Labour Day. In this form, May Day has become an international celebration of the social and economic achievements of the working class and labor movement.
The Haymarket riots came as a result of laborers and union members pushing for a 40 hour work week. You can read more about it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/...
So while we are remembering Little Georgie's flight of fancy today and debating the merits of Obama's latest speech, please take a minute or two to remember those who fought and died to bring you the weekend and the 40 hour work week.