From Asia to Europe to the U.S., Tuesday’s May Day marches were less a celebration of workers’ rights and more an expression of national moods. From gloom to optimism to celebration, here is a look:

SPAIN: Deep gloom.

Tens of thousands of Spanish protesters joined demonstrations, weary after two years of deep spending cuts and tax hikes, sky-high unemployment and no end in sight to austerity. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is trying desperately to cut a bloated deficit, restore investor confidence and fend off fears that Spain will need an international bailout. “I am here because there is no future for the young people of this country,’’ said Adriana Jaime, a 25-year-old marcher.

FRANCE: Optimism.

In France, tens of thousands of workers, leftists and union members held boisterous rallies ahead of presidential elections Sunday that a Socialist is expected to win for the first time since 1988. Many voters fear incumbent President Nicolas Sarkozy will erode France’s welfare and see him as too friendly with the wealthy. “Sarkozy has allowed himself for too long to manhandle the lower classes,’’ said 24-year-old Dante Leonardi. “Today we must show … that we want him to leave.’’

GREECE: Uncertainty.

The mood was subdued in Greece, where more than 2,000 people marched through downtown Athens after nearly three years of sharp economic pain. Adding to the uncertainty: No party is expected to secure a governing majority in the election, and it remains unclear whether squabbling party leaders will be able to strike a power-sharing deal.

THE PHILIPPINES: Anger.

In the capital, Manila, more than 8,000 members of a labor alliance marched to a heavily barricaded bridge near the Malacanang presidential palace, which teemed with thousands of riot police. Other left-wing workers burned a huge effigy of President Benigno Aquino III, depicting him as a lackey of the United States and big business.

TUNISIA: Celebration.