The Gunpowder Plot, led by Robert Catesby, aimed to blow up the king and those close to him at the state opening of parliament in 1605. The plot was uncovered and the conspirators were found guilty of treason. They were sentenced to death by being hanged, drawn and quartered.

Who was to blame for the Gunpowder Plot?

Guy Fawkes is the name associated above all others with the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Perhaps because he was the one caught red-handed, he's become our Bonfire Night 'celebrity'.

What was the outcome of the Gunpowder Plot?

Four were killed in a shoot-out and the remaining eight were convicted of treason and hung, drawn and quartered. The discovery of the plot had a lasting effect on the treatment of the Catholics in England and its failure is commemorated to this day on Bonfire Night – 5 November.