https://reaktionbooks.co.uk/work/a-history-of-fireworks-from-their-origins-to-the-present-day
The Dorset Echo has written a nice piece about it, pointing out that Dorchester, described in the 17th century as 'the most puritan town in England', was probably one of the first places to celebrate 5 November with fireworks. Bonfire Night, of course, marks the failure of Guy Fawkes' Catholic plot in 1605 to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
The Echo also reports that by 1632 local constables were having to arrest apprentices who had been overdoing the celebrations.
This illustrates the authorities' dilemma over 5 November. Until 1859, it was compulsory by law to celebrate the day, but it often led to disorder. In the late 19th century, Dorchester was one of a number of places that tried to tame the occasion by putting on official, publicly financed, events.
Then there is the story of the failed attempt to set a world record for firing off rockets at Bournemouth in 2009.
https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/24471253.history-fireworks-book-sheds-light-dorsets-past/
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