Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night
What is Bonfire Night?
On 5 November, people across the UK celebrate Guy Fawkes Night, often called Bonfire or Firework Night. This is an annual evening of fireworks and bonfires held across the country. Some might have small fireworks parties in their back gardens, while towns and villages may put on organised displays in public parks.
The reason people celebrate this holiday is because it’s the anniversary of an attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament. This was called the Gunpowder Plot. When we light bonfires to remember this event, traditionally there will be a dummy man on the top of them. He is called the ‘Guy’ and is a kind of doll that represents a man who was part of the plot, called Guy Fawkes.
What was the Gunpowder Plot?
Guy (Guido) Fawkes was part of the Gunpowder plot in 1605. He wanted to blow up King James I and his government. This was because of religion. England was a Protestant country and the plotters were Catholic. They wanted England to be Catholic again, which they thought they could do if they killed King James I and his ministers.
So, Fawkes and his group put 36 barrels of gunpowder in cellars underneath the Houses of Parliament in London, ready to set off a massive explosion. However, one member of Fawkes’ group sent a letter to his friend who worked in Parliament, warning him to stay away on 5 November. The King’s supporters got hold of the letter and the plot was rumbled!
Guards broke into the cellars where the gunpowder plotters were waiting. They were arrested and executed.
The gunpowder rhyme
Most Brits grow up learning this simple Bonfire Night rhyme and you may hear people reciting the first line at one of the celebrations. The people who used to collect the wood for the bonfire (usually impoverished young children) would recite it as they worked to keep spirits up.
Remember, remember, the fifth of November! Gunpowder treason and plot
We see no reason why Gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot.
