The Real Story Of Guy Fawkes Night. Learn The History And Facts Of Bonfire Night

The 5th of November, like most celebrations, has become a victim of commercialisation and for many, little is known of its origins.

Known by a few different names, such as Guy Fawkes Day, Bonfire Night, the day has a fascinating history.

Let’s delve into the past and also appreciate the benefits of the modern celebration, gathering with friends and family around a bonfire or fireworks display.

 

Guy Fawkes Night 1

photo by Megan Eaves

 

Catholics in England did not have the same rights as Protestants. Elizabeth I played a large part in this and heavily influenced the religion across the country, after her father Henry VIII initially instated it.

 

photo by David J Lowe

After Elizabeth I reign of over 40 years, James I took power, and Catholics were optimistic for reform. Unfortunately, it did not transpire, and by 1605, a Gunpowder Plot was planned.

 

house of parliment

photo by skiena

 

The plot involved blowing up the House of Lords during the State Opening of England’s Parliament on November 5th, 1605.

 

photo by Sam Doshi

The plot was created by a group of English Catholics who opposed the oppression of their religion.

 

photo by Sam Doshi

They planned to assassinate the Protestant King James I of England to bring in their own Catholic head of state. This was known as “The Main Plot”.

 

Guy Fawkes Night 5

photo by Chris P Jobling

The event is often linked to Guy Fawkes, who became involved with the Catholic group a year prior to the event.

 

Guy Fawkes Night 6

photo by Bethany Weeks

 

In the days preceding November 5th, the group rented a cellar underneath the building, where Fawkes stashed numerous barrels of gunpowder.

 

photo by kurafire

 

Unfortunately, by the time it got closer to the event, due to leak of information (it happened then, it happens now), authorities uncovered the plot.

 

photo by Sam Doshi

 

Caught guarding the explosives, Guy Fawkes was arrested, and the other conspirators followed soon after. The were found guilty of high treason and sentenced to death.

 

Guy Fawkes

photo by Shane Global

 

People lit bonfires around London in celebration of King James I survival. The following January of 1606, Parliament passed the Observance of 5th November Act, also known as the “Thanksgiving Act”.

 

Guy Fawkes Night 9

photo by Shane Global

 

Guy Fawkes’ effigy is traditionally burned on a bonfire, commonly accompanied by a firework display.

 

Guy Fawkes 2

photo by Camus Live Art

Although the plot is remembered for Guy Fawkes, it really should be Robert Catesby Day, who was the leader and mastermind behind the failed Gunpowder Plot.

 

Bonfire

Photo by Mike Stenhouse

The celebration since has changed its meaning, and firework displays and bonfire parties take place all over. The county of Sussex is particularly well known for very grandiose  processions and firework displays, organised by local bonfire societies.

[quote][dropcap]D[/dropcap]on’t you Remember,
The Fifth of November,
‘Twas Gunpowder Treason Day,
I let off my gun,
And made’em all run.
And Stole all their Bonfire away.[/quote]

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Dominic Sawyer

Dominic has been writing on the web since 2000. He has a BSc (Hons) degree in Biological Sciences from Nottingham University and his research thesis has been published in journals. With a foundation in painstaking research he found his passion for travel and has worked in the sector for 20 years. He has written a book about travel and has extended his expertise to consumer research across the travel and leisure sector.