The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, was a significant event in modern Indian history. It marked the end of the rule of the East India Company and led to changes in British governance in India.
Triggering Event: Mangal Pandey’s Action
- Mangal Pandey, a Sepoy, fired at the Sergeant Major of his regiment on March 29, 1857, near Kolkata.
- His actions ignited widespread discontent among Indian soldiers and eventually led to the Revolt of 1857.
Background and Causes
- Annexation of Awadh
- Awadh, a region known for supplying soldiers to the Company’s army, was annexed by the British in 1856.
- The annexation caused resentment among the people, particularly the soldiers who felt betrayed.
- Revenue System Grievances
- The land revenue settlement of 1856 caused hardships for peasants and soldiers alike.
- Sepoys, including Mangal Pandey, expressed discontent through petitions.
- Religious Concerns
- Introduction of the Enfield rifle cartridges, rumored to be greased with animal fat, offended religious sentiments.
- Sepoys perceived this as an attempt to undermine their religious beliefs by the British.
Spread and Nature of the Revolt
- The revolt spread rapidly across various regions of India, fueled by collective grievances against British rule.
- Buildings were destroyed, treasuries plundered, and prisons opened as the population rose against the administration.
Leadership and Resistance
- Sepoys from Meerut sought Bahadur Shah II’s leadership, proclaiming him as the emperor of Hindustan.
- Despite exemplary courage, rebels lacked coordination and modern weaponry, facing superior British forces.
Consequences and Changes in British Rule
- The revolt prompted the British to adopt new strategies for long-term control over India.
- The British Parliament transferred powers from the East India Company to the Crown through the Act of 1858.
- Queen Victoria’s Proclamation in 1858 promised support for native princes and equality before the law for all Indians.
Commemoration and Reinforcement
- Mangal Pandey’s heroic action is commemorated in Barrackpore, highlighting his sacrifice.
- The Queen’s Proclamation was reinforced in the Delhi Durbar of 1877, affirming equality and support for Indians under British rule.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What event triggered the Revolt of 1857?
- A) The annexation of Awadh
- B) The firing by Mangal Pandey
- C) The introduction of the Enfield rifle
- D) The proclamation of Queen Victoria
- Which region’s annexation by the British contributed to the resentment among Indian soldiers?
- A) Punjab
- B) Bengal
- C) Awadh
- D) Maratha Empire
- What grievance did the Sepoys express through petitions before the Revolt of 1857?
- A) Unfair taxation policies
- B) Land revenue settlements
- C) Religious interference
- D) Lack of military training
- Who was proclaimed as the emperor of Hindustan by the Sepoys in Meerut during the revolt?
- A) Bahadur Shah II
- B) Tipu Sultan
- C) Rani Lakshmibai
- D) Nana Saheb
- What significant change in British governance occurred as a result of the Revolt of 1857?
- A) Transfer of powers from the Crown to the East India Company
- B) Implementation of religious intervention policies
- C) Declaration of independence for India
- D) Transfer of powers from the East India Company to the Crown