Quiz & Flashcards: Causes of Failure - 1857 War of Independence

Study Notes

Causes of Failure of the 1857 War of Independence

Lack of Leadership and Discipline: Freedom fighters operated independently, lacking a unifying leader and discipline, which hindered their momentum.
Lack of Unity: Freedom fighters were not united, fighting independently without coordinating resources against a common enemy.
Lack of Resources: Fighters were short on equipment and supplies, facing a well-organized and equipped British military.
Lack of Popular Support: The movement did not secure widespread national support; certain regions remained uninvolved.
Superior British Technology: British troops utilized advanced weaponry and were led by experienced generals.
Non-cooperation from Local Rulers: State rulers did not support freedom fighters, keeping the struggle confined to isolated regions.
Planned Uprising vs. British Strategy: The uprising was unplanned and burdened by disunity, while British forces had established strategies and military superiority.
New Agrarian Policy: Zamindars faced increased tax rates and demands for proof of land claims, exacerbating discontent leading to the uprising.
Unemployment: British policies excluded Indians from significant job roles, contributing to widespread unemployment among educated classes.
Religious Instigation: British efforts to propagate Christianity generated distrust among Indians, who perceived threats to their religious practices.
Military Causes: Disbandment of local armies created a pool of unemployed soldiers, contributing to unrest.
Innovative Military Grievances: The introduction of greased cartridges sparked religious outcry, as the cartridges were rumored to contain animal fat offensive to both Hindu and Muslim soldiers.

Key Events of the War (1857-58)

Uprising Overview: The war is recognized as the Indian Rebellion, Indian Mutiny, or Indian Revolt, largely resulting from political, social, economic, military, and religious tensions.
Limited Geography: The rebellion was confined primarily to areas like Meerut, Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow.
Disputed Cartridges Incident: Introduced in January 1857, the new rifle cartridges caused outrage when it was rumored they contained animal fat.
Mangal Pandey's Rebellion: A sepoy who protested against the cartridges was executed, setting off wider unrest among troops.
Meerut Rebellion: On April 24, 1857, sepoys in Meerut revolted against court-martial sentences, leading to the sacking of the city and ultimately capturing Delhi.
Bahadur Shah Zafar's Role: The Mughal Emperor emerged as a symbolic leader of the uprising, uniting both Hindus and Muslims against British rule.
Indignation Incident in Meerut: On May 6, 1857, the court-martial of soldiers for refusing the cartridges ignited widespread anger, culminating in the revolt on May 10, 1857.