Theoretical overview
The revolt of 1857 also known as India’s first war of independence holds a significant place in India’s history as it witnesses mass uprising against the British colonial rule. This event marked as a turning point in India’s struggle for freedom leaving a huge impact on the political, social and cultural fabric of the nation.
The revolt begins on May 10, 1857 in Meerut when sepoys refused to use the controversial cartridges. The uprising quickly spread across northern and Central India with the participation of a diverse range of individuals. During the revolt, numerous notable leaders emerged such as Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi, Bahadur Shah II, Nana Sahib and Kunwar Singh. Despite initial successes of the rebels, the British ultimately quelled the revolt by employing military force and political strategies.
Causes of revolt of 1857
- The introduction of the controversial Enfield rifle cartridges which were rumored to be greased with animal fat. Thus, offending both Hindu and Muslim soldiers
- Economic exploitation by high land revenue and taxation and many discriminately policies which lead to the destruction of handicraft industries
- Political causes such as low salary prospect of proportion abolition of foreign allowances and ending of pension of native kings and peshwas also contributed as a cause to the revolt
- Attack to social culture by racism and taxes on temples and mosque use were also the reason behind the revolt.
Causes of failure
- Britishers had captured village before the revolt.
- Facility of telegraphs and some more technologies help Britishers to send and receive the messages.
- Zamindars protested the villagers of their area and helped Britishers.
- Lack of communication among protesters.
- Lack of a proper guidance.
It’s impact on India
- one of the most important impacts of this revolt was the end of the East India company’s rule in India as the rebellion exposed the company’s failures and mismanagement.
- The revolt compelled the Britishers to reframe their policies and political agendas in India
- It also played a crucial role in awakening a sense of nationalism among Indians which lays the foundation for the Indian independence movement
- This revolt brought diverse communities together and fostered a sense of unity against British operation.
Points to remember
- The revolt of 1857 also known as India’s first war of independence
- The revolt begins on May 10, 1857 in Meerut when sepoys refused to use the controversial cartridges.
- Despite initial successes of the rebels, the British ultimately quelled the revolt by employing military force and political strategies.
- Political causes such as low salary prospect of proportion abolition of foreign allowances and ending of pension of native kings and peshwas also contributed as a cause to the revolt
- Attack to social culture by racism and taxes on temples and mosque use were also the reason behind the revolt.
- one of the most important impacts of this revolt was the end of the East India company’s rule in India as the rebellion exposed the company’s failures and mismanagement.
- This revolt brought diverse communities together and fostered a sense of unity against British operation.
