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Remember remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder, treason
Should ever be forgot...
Lyrics refer to Guy Fawkes
- origins in
17th century English history
On the 5th November 1605 Guy Fawkes was caught in the cellars of the
English Houses of Parliament with several dozen barrels of gunpowder,
Guy Fawkes was subsequently tried as a traitor for plotting
against the government and then
executed. The form of the execution was one of the most horrendous
ever practised (hung ,drawn and quartered) reflecting the serious
nature of the crime. This nursery rhyme served to ensure that this
form of treason would never be forgotten hence the words "
Remember , remember the 5th of November" sometimes referred
to as 'Please to remember the fifth of November'. It serves as a warning to each
new generation that treason would never be forgiven or forgotten.
In England the 5th of November is commemorated each year with
fireworks and bonfires culminating with the burning of effigies of
Guy Fawkes (the guy) by children on the top of the bonfire. The
'guys' are made by the children by stuffing old clothes with
newspapers to look like a man - it is traditional for British
children to display their 'guys' to passers by asking for " A
penny for the guy". The money received to be spent on
fireworks for Bonfire Night (or Guy Fawke's night) celebrations on
5th November! |
