Trivia: Though very obvious to British users of this site, it is most likely not as well known in the US. Fawkes the phoenix is most likely named for Guy Fawkes (1570-1606), a Catholic conspirator who tried to kill King James I and blow up Parliament in 1605 (the Gunpowder Plot) to avenge persecution of Roman Catholics in England. His plan failed, and he was arrested, tried, and executed. November 5th is Guy Fawkes night/bonfire night, when the failure of his plan is celebrated with fireworks and bonfires - the fires often have a "guy" on top of them, a stuffed dummy.
Grumpy Scot
25th Sep 2003