what did guy fawkes try to blow up

Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot Guy Fawkes was a key figure in the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, a failed conspiracy to assassinate King James I and destroy the English Parliament. The plotters aimed to ignite gunpowder barrels hidden beneath the House of Lords to kill the king, nobles, and lawmakers during the State Opening on November 5.

The Target

The plot specifically targeted the Houses of Parliament in London, with 36 barrels of gunpowder stashed in a rented cellar under the House of Lords. This location ensured maximum devastation, as King James I, his family, judges, and MPs would all be present.

Plot Details

• Fawkes, a seasoned soldier, guarded the gunpowder and planned to light the fuse on November 5, 1605.
• The scheme arose from Catholic frustrations over Protestant rule and anti-Catholic laws.
• An anonymous letter tipped off authorities, leading to Fawkes's arrest on November 4 while he carried ignition tools.

The plotters hoped the explosion would spark a Catholic uprising, but it failed spectacularly.

Aftermath and Legacy

Fawkes endured torture before naming accomplices; most were killed resisting arrest or executed. The event birthed Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night), celebrated annually on November 5 with fireworks and effigy burnings.

Today, Fawkes symbolizes rebellion, thanks to the stylized mask from V for Vendetta , though historically he was a terrorist by modern standards.

TL;DR: Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament (specifically the gunpowder under the House of Lords) to kill King James I and overthrow Protestant rule in 1605.

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