Why do we have an eight-hour workday?

Origins of the Workday

In the 18th and 19th centuries, during the Industrial Revolution, factory workers often labored 10–16 hours a day, six days a week.

These conditions were harsh, unsafe, and left little time for rest or family life.

Labor Movements and the “8-Hour Day” Demand

Early labor activists, like Robert Owen (a Welsh social reformer), popularized the slogan:
“Eight hours labour, eight hours recreation, eight hours rest.” (1817).

The idea spread internationally, becoming a rallying cry for workers.

In the U.S., the push for shorter hours intensified in the late 19th century.

The Haymarket Affair (Chicago, 1886) was a key moment in the fight for the 8-hour day, when workers striking for shorter hours were met with violence.

May 1st (May Day) later became recognized as International Workers’ Day in honor of this struggle.

Legal Recognition

By the early 20th century, unions around the world pressured governments to adopt shorter hours.

In the U.S., the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 made the 40-hour workweek (5 days × 8 hours) standard, with overtime pay for extra hours.

Many other countries followed suit, enshrining the eight-hour day in labor law.

Why Eight Hours?

It was seen as a balance between productivity and human well-being:

8 hours work → contribute to society and earn wages

8 hours rest → sleep and recovery

8 hours recreation → family, leisure, personal growth

Employers also realized that overworked employees were less productive and more accident-prone, so shorter days could actually improve efficiency.

Modern Debates

Today, many argue that with digital technology and higher productivity, the 8-hour model is outdated.

Experiments with a 4-day workweek (32 hours) are showing promising results in terms of productivity, employee happiness, and health.

Still, the eight-hour day remains the standard in much of the world.