This is the day on which Queen Elizabeth I ascended to the throne in 1558 upon the death of her sister, Queen Mary I. The anniversary of her coronation was celebrated for more than 300 years after her reign ended, primarily as a holiday for those working in government offices. After the Gunpowder Plot was exposed in 1605, two years following Elizabeth’s death, the day was marked by anti-papal demonstrations, which included burning the pope in effigy. Queen Elizabeth’s Day eventually merged with the celebration of Guy Fawkes Day. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary