On Nov. 5, 1991, we were in transit, with a 5 and 2 year old, to our overseas posting in Nigeria. We flew from SFO to London, where we took a couple of days to decompress with friends who lived there. Imagine everyone’s delight when there were fireworks that night. This was the first we learned of Guy Fawkes Day, commemorating the failure of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

The plan was to blow up the Houses of Parliament, during the state opening, kill the king and members of Parliament so the Catholics could take over. Gunpowder Plot conspirators were zealous Roman Catholics enraged at King James 1 for refusing to grant greater religious tolerance to Catholics.  After the conspirators were betrayed, Guy Fawkes was taken into custody the night before the attack, in the cellar storing the explosives. The fate of the conspirators was death, either killed while trying to escape capture or executed post trial. Celebration of Guy Fawkes began a year later, in 1606. Children learn this rhyme:

Remember, remember, the fifth of November
Gunpowder treason and plot
We see no reason
Why Gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot….

Let the fireworks begin! Oh, and the bonfires. Don’t forget the bonfires, into which people throw effigies of Guy Fawkes. These days, they also throw in effigies of more current political characters. It’s just a wee bit ironic, this very critical election day of ours falling on Guy Fawkes Day. I can think of some conspirators who are lucky to live in the USA. And one in particular who still needs to face justice and sentencing, delayed due to his candidacy for president. I can’t believe I just typed that. So I’ll get started on my effigy, once I find some orange fabric. Maybe I can use it on Jan. 6th. Prepare the Firepit!!!