History in everyday Life

Welcome one and all,
I’m sitting here somewhat bleary eyed after experiencing my first Major UK holiday.  Since we kicked over into November every night has had a barrage of Thumps, Pops and Explosions.  I knew enough about the calendar to know 5 November is Guy Fawkes day, and because of his misadventure it was decided (back under King James I) that the day would be commemorated by Bonfires and Fireworks, and that tradition continues even in 2018.
     See Guy Fawkes and a group of coconspirators were very unhappy that the King was forcing upon the population a conversion to Protestantism and singling out the Catholics.  The group with Guy were very much Catholic and more so Roman Catholic and saw the changes so they decided to do something.  So they stockpiled barrels of gunpowder under the Parliament building and were waiting for the perfect time to blow Parliament sky high.  Unfortunately under one of Guy’s turn at guarding and preparing to ignite the gunpowder he was discovered.  Because this was seen as high treason he wasn’t treated well and when the trial ended he was sentenced to death by hanging and then to be drawn and quartered with his limbs being sent to all the four corners of the Empire so that others could see what a bad idea it was to try to blow up a King.
   Last night was intense but amazing.  Some of the mortars they used were completely new to me and that made it all the more fun.  The closest display to our flat was 2 1/2 blocks away and we greatly underestimated the number of people that would be there.  I had with me all the things necessary to soften the blows from the explosions with music, headphones and earplugs even.  I came through on the slightly overwhelmed side but I’m pretty sure that was from the number of people crowded around us.  Next year will be even better. we know we need to leave earlier, and to bring the right kind of music to go with such an amazing display.
     Today is a day to get back into the routines.   Laundry, errands, and cooking dinner later today.  I’m hoping to stay awake through it all, but a nap is nothing to scoff at either.
More to Come, join me for the ride,
👋