Holiday Insights : November 5 Holiday - Guy Fawkes Day, Gunpowder Day

Guy Fawkes Day and Gunpowder Day are one and the same. It commemorates the infamous Gunpowder Conspiracy of 1605 in England. It was led by, you guessed it, Guy Fawkes.

The Roots of Gunpowder Day or Guy Fawkes Day

In 1603, King James I took the throne in England. An avid Protestant, he began persecuting Catholics in the country. He forbid Catholics from practicing their religion ,and punished Catholics who did not convert to the Protestant church.

The Gunpowder Conspirators were a group of Catholics who sought to take action against the king. They plotted to blow up the British Houses of Parliament. They planned to do so, when the king and his supporters were in the buildings. Their plot was uncovered on November 5, 1605. Thirty six barrels of gunpowder were found in the basement of Parliament. Guy Fawkes, the leader of the conspiracy, was arrested and tortured until he confessed. He was arrested just as he was about to ignite the gunpowder.

How do people in England celebrate Gunpowder Day? They do so, with fireworks and bonfires.

Thought for the Day: Are we celebrating Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators, for attempting to eliminate religious persecution? Or, are we celebrating the government's successful discovery of the plot, saving many lives? ...You make the call.

Origin of Guy Fawkes Day:

We know the origin of the cause for this special day. We do not know when this special day began to be celebrated. It likely began in the 1600s.

Note: This special day lends proof the the theory that notoriety results in recognition.

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