Remember, Remember The Fifth of November
The Gunpowder, Treason and Plot
I know of No Reason Why the Gunpowder Treason
Should Ever Be Forgot
Today is Guy Fawkes Day, also known as Bonfire Night. It celebrates the thwarting of the “Gunpowder Plot” which was an attempt to blow up King James I and the House of Lords in 1605. To learn more about the plot, John and I went on the London Walks: Gunpowder, Treason and Plot: On the Trail of Guy Fawkes.
We got a large dose of history regarding the animosity between the Catholics and the Protestants. Our tour guide, Hilary gave us a balanced overview of the circumstances leading up to the plot. After listening what the Catholics were subjected to, it’s not surprising such a plot was hatched (supposedly in a pub over a beer).
I did walk away thanking God for living in a country where I’m free to attend whichever religious service I prefer ~ or not attending any services should I choose not to. Back in the late 1500s and early 1600s, not attending a protestant service resulted in a large fine (which could easily bankrupt a person). Sadly, when the Catholics were in power, you were burned at the stake if you didn’t go to mass.
I learned a lot and was glad I braved the cold and rain to partake in this once a year tour. Here are a few of the photos from the tour:
Cromwell Statue in front of House of Parliament
Westminster Abbey entrance
Horse Guards
Angel on Westminster Abbey
John along the walk
Angel
Westminster Abbey Courtyard
St James Park
Displaced Beachbums 
Let me know what you think...