Remember, Remember the 5th of November: A Very Explosive Mistake!

Every year on November 5th, the United Kingdom celebrates Guy Fawkes Night—but it is actually a commemoration of a massive, failed prank! Back in 1605, a group of conspirators led by Guy Fawkes decided that the best way to handle their political grievances with King James I was to stash 36 barrels of gunpowder in the cellar directly beneath the House of Lords.

Talk about a 'blast' from the past! The plan was to ignite the explosives during the state opening of Parliament, but the plot was foiled when an anonymous tip led authorities to the cellar. They found Fawkes lurking in the dark, guarding his gunpowder like a very suspicious, explosive-loving sentry. Today, instead of blowing up Parliament, the British celebrate by lighting bonfires and setting off fireworks—a much safer way to honor the day Guy Fawkes became history's most famous 'failed' pyrotechnician!