traditionally May Day was an ancient northern spring festival These festivals happened during the Roman Republic era Spring was welcomed with dancing, singing and cake Ever heard of a May pole? Dances to welcome spring were done around these poles As Christianity spread, the holiday became devoted to the Virgin Mary; statues of her were adorned with flowers May baskets (small baskets full of sweets or flowers) were secretly left on doorsteps to welcome spring In 1886, workers in Chicago adopted May Day as International Workers Day This new version of May Day is marked with demonstrations and fights as workers attempt to gain good hours and decent conditions 
Barrett Bartels
Author