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Faith, power and protest
This Religion and worldviews video supports teachers in preparing for lessons about the Gunpowder Plot, helping pupils consider the question: is it right or wrong to celebrate Bonfire Night? It offers historical background on the conflict between Catholics and Protestants in England, highlighting the reasons behind Guy Fawkes’ actions. Teachers are guided through key events, including the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther’s challenge to the Pope’s authority, and the shifting religious landscape under monarchs such as Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and James I.
This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Religion and worldviews scheme – history. It equips teachers with essential knowledge to support children’s understanding of how religious beliefs and political power have influenced each other throughout history. Teachers will be able to explain why Catholic practices were outlawed under Protestant rule, and how this led to acts of resistance like the Gunpowder Plot. The video helps contextualise the celebration of Bonfire Night and provides a foundation for discussions about freedom of belief, law, and morality in religious history.
