Why is Guy Fawkes responsible for the fireworks in the UK on November 5th?

Here is why the Bonfire Night, also referred to as Fireworks Night or Guy Fawkes, is celebrated annually in the UK on November 5th

History of the Bonfire Night

Every year on November 5th, Bonfires or Fireworks are lit in the UK to commemorate the failed attempt by Guy (Guido) Fawkes to blow up the government. The foiled attempt, also known as the Gunpowder Plot, took place in 1605 as Catholics led by Guy Fawkes failed to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London. The attack intended to get rid of James I and his ministers and form a government headed by the Catholic church. Since England was a protestant country, those behind the plot wanted the country to return to Catholicism.

How the Gunpowder unravelled

The plot was to bomb the Houses of Parliament by placing them underneath the building and blowing it up. However, the plot was foiled when a letter was discovered by one of King James I’s men. Those involved were flashed out and later executed.

When does Bonfire Night take place?

The event takes place on November 5th each year in commemoration of the date the plot backfired. Had it gone to plan, it could have caused the death of the King, his ministers and even civilian casualties. When members of the public learnt of the ordeal, they started lighting bonfires in the city to celebrate the failed Gunpowder Plot. Even with the unpleasant celebrations over the years, the event has become a way for friends and loved ones to get warm beside bonfires.