Guy Fawkes

"Remember, remember, the Fifth of November; The gunpowder treason and plot; I know of no reason why the gunpowder treason; Should ever be forgot."

- Traditional rhyme

Guy or Guido Fawkes (1570-1606) was a member of a band of English Catholics who planned the 1605 plot to blow up the English House of Lords, thereby killing the king, James I.

Contrary to popular belief he was not the leader of the Gunpowder Plot, the true leader was Robert Catesby. The group of thirteen met in secret at an inn several times through the year 1605.

In October, the plot was finalised, but with one twist; the thirteenth member, Francis Tresham, had sent a letter anonymously to Lord Monteagle, telling him of the plot details. The letter was shown to the king on November 1. Four days later, a search party sent by the king found Fawkes. He was sentenced to be tortured, then hanged, drawn and quartered.


 * Thirteen Is Unlucky - There were thirteen members of the plot.