The 10 hour work day laws. The US federal government enacted a 10 hour work day in 1840 and New Hampshire became the first state to enact the law in 1847.
Explanation:
There were no hours limitations in work days so workers would work very long hours in the summer and shorter hours in the winter. There was job action to get Employers to spread the work evenly over the year.
There was provision in the legislation for workers to voluntarily work extra time so in real terms it did not limit the day to 10 hours. The legislation solidified the success of the effort.
This and other legal decisions that legitimized organized labor and strengthen their gains
