The First War of Independence (1857)
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Questions and Answers

What event marked the beginning of the Revolt of 1857?

  • Mutiny of soldiers in Meerut Cantonment (correct)
  • Ransacking of public offices
  • Capture of Delhi by sepoys
  • Proclamation of Bahadur Shah as the emperor
  • Who was proclaimed the leader of the revolt by the sepoys?

  • Rani Lakshmi Bai
  • Tantya Tope
  • Nana Saheb
  • Bahadur Shah Zafar (correct)
  • Which of the following groups primarily initiated the Revolt of 1857?

  • Common people of India
  • Indian rulers
  • British officials
  • Soldiers in the service of the East India Company (correct)
  • What was the general sentiment among different sections of society during the revolt?

    <p>Unity to oppose foreign domination (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How was the Revolt of 1857 referred to by British historians?

    <p>Sepoy Mutiny (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major political cause of the Revolt of 1857?

    <p>Widespread discontent among Indian sepoys (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which ruler led the revolt in Jhansi?

    <p>Rani Lakshmi Bai (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key objective of the Indian soldiers participating in the revolt?

    <p>To settle personal scores with the British (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary consequence of the Doctrine of Lapse for Indian rulers?

    <p>It ensured kingdoms without natural heirs would be annexed by the British. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major reason that Nawab Wajid Ali Shah lost power?

    <p>He accepted the Subsidiary Alliance imposed by the British. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the British economic policies impact traditional Indian industries?

    <p>They caused a flood of British goods, leading to unemployment. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the result of the British annexation of Awadh on the local population?

    <p>Unemployment and loss of livelihoods for many professionals. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common sentiment developed among Indian rulers as a result of British treaties?

    <p>Fear and distrust due to violation of treaties. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which policy contributed to the economic exploitation of Indian peasants?

    <p>Enforcing the zamindari system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event followed immediately after the annexation of Awadh?

    <p>Nawab Wajid Ali Shah's exile to Calcutta. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is Lord Dalhousie's rule considered significant in British expansion in India?

    <p>His policies paved the way for the greatest territorial expansion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the social reforms that many Indians opposed?

    <p>Western education (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What rumor caused panic among the Indian population regarding caste?

    <p>Cartloads of bonedust were mixed with food sold in markets. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant military cause that triggered discontent among the sepoys?

    <p>Discrimination in pay between Indian and British soldiers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the greased cartridges allegedly contain that upset both Hindus and Muslims?

    <p>Animal fat from cows and pigs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was Mangal Pandey and what did he do to spark the revolt?

    <p>A sepoy who shot his sergeant in protest (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a characteristic of the British view towards Indians during this period?

    <p>Belief in racial superiority and discrimination (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What change did the Act of 1856 impose on Indian soldiers that created resentment?

    <p>Compulsory overseas service (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When did the sepoys revolt begin in Meerut?

    <p>April 1857 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key reason for the British victory during the Revolt?

    <p>Sophisticated weapons and disciplined army (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group remained loyal to the British during the Revolt?

    <p>The Gurkhas (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant change occurred on November 1, 1858?

    <p>Queen Victoria became Empress of India (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the policy of annexation change after the Revolt?

    <p>It was completely abandoned (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did the Indian princes play in the aftermath of the Revolt?

    <p>They were assured that their states would not be annexed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributed to the lack of unity among the rebels?

    <p>They had varying goals and leadership struggles (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was appointed to oversee the governance of India after the Revolt?

    <p>A Secretary of State (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Revolt signify in terms of Indian history?

    <p>The first major struggle for freedom in India (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which leader was associated with the revolt in Western Bihar?

    <p>Kunwar Singh (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant consequence of the British recapturing Delhi?

    <p>The exile of Bahadur Shah Zafar II (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following regiments did NOT participate in the revolt?

    <p>Sikh leaders in Punjab (A), Bombay Regiment (B), Nizam of Hyderabad (C), Madras Regiment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the main reasons for the failure of the revolt?

    <p>Failure to spread the revolt nationwide (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Rani Lakshmi Bai is best known for her involvement in which region during the revolt?

    <p>Central India (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a notable attribute of the revolt regarding the participating groups?

    <p>Reflecting Hindu-Muslim unity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action was taken by British military officers to regain control of Delhi?

    <p>Blowing up the Kashmiri Gate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was NOT a cause of the revolt's failure?

    <p>Emergence of a common ideology (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    The First War of Independence (1857)

    The 1857 Indian Rebellion, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was a widespread uprising against British rule in India, starting in Meerut and spreading across the country.

    What sparked the First War of Independence?

    The rebellion began with the mutiny of Indian soldiers in Meerut, fueled by dissatisfaction with British policies and treatment.

    What was the immediate cause of the 1857 Rebellion?

    The East India Company's policies, such as the introduction of greased cartridges containing animal fat, offended the religious sensibilities of both Hindus and Muslims. This sparked widespread anger and revolt.

    Who participated in the First War of Independence?

    The revolt spread beyond the sepoys to include different sections of Indian society – peasants, artisans, soldiers, educated Indians, and rulers.

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    What was the main goal of the First War of Independence?

    The revolt aimed to end British rule and exploitation, restore Indian sovereignty, and drive the British out of India.

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    The impact of The First War of Independence?

    While the revolt ultimately failed to achieve its goal, it's remembered as a significant milestone in India's struggle for freedom. It demonstrated the strength of Indian resistance against colonial rule.

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    Who were some key figures in the First War of Independence?

    The revolt, led by figures like Bahadur Shah Zafar, Rani Lakshmibai, and Nana Saheb, showcased the determination of Indian rulers to fight for their kingdoms and sovereignty.

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    Why is the First War of Independence considered a landmark?

    The revolt was a turning point in India's history. It marked the beginning of a more organized and unified resistance against British rule, paving the way for the eventual achievement of independence.

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    Doctrine of Lapse

    The British policy of annexing Indian kingdoms without a male heir, enforcing the adoption of heirs, and claiming the kingdom after the king's death.

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    Subsidiary Alliance

    A treaty signed in 1801 between the British East India Company and the Nawab of Awadh, where the Nawab had to accept a permanent British army within his territory, pay for its maintenance, and accept a British Resident in his court.

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    Economic Exploitation by the British

    The British policy of exploiting Indian resources and industries, causing widespread resentment and economic hardship.

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    Forced Cash Crops

    The British enforced the cultivation of specific crops in India, forcing Indian farmers to prioritize British industrial needs over local needs.

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    Destruction of Indian Industries

    The British flooded the Indian market with industrial goods, causing the decline of Indian industries and widespread unemployment.

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    Annexation of Awadh

    The annexation of Awadh by the British in 1856, where the Nawab was exiled and his army disbanded, resulting in widespread unemployment among Indian soldiers.

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    Indian Resentment Towards the British

    The resentment and opposition to the British rule in India, arising from policies like the Doctrine of Lapse, Subsidiary Alliance, and economic exploitation.

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    Expansion of British Power in India

    The British East India Company controlled vast territories in India through various means like treaties, annexations, and economic exploitation.

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    What social reforms contributed to the 1857 Rebellion?

    The British introduced reforms that changed Indian customs and traditions, like Western education and property laws, leading to resentment among many Indians.

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    How did rumors spread and impact Indians during the 1857 Rebellion?

    Rumors about the British poisoning food and caste loss due to the spread of railways fueled widespread fear and panic among poor and illiterate Indians.

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    What military causes led to the discontent among the Sepoys?

    A general feeling of humiliation and discrimination by the British towards Indian soldiers, including lower pay and forced overseas duty, contributed to growing discontent.

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    Who was Mangal Pandey, and how did his actions contribute to the rebellion?

    Mangal Pandey, a Sepoy, publicly refused to use the greased cartridges and was executed, igniting a rebellion throughout the country.

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    Where did the Sepoy Rebellion begin?

    In April 1857, the Sepoys at Meerut rebelled against the British, starting the widespread uprising that spread across India.

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    Who participated in the 1857 Rebellion?

    The 1857 Rebellion was a large-scale uprising against British rule, marked by the Sepoy Mutiny, but it also involved other Indians, including peasants, rulers, and educated individuals.

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    What was the main goal of the 1857 Rebellion?

    The 1857 uprising was a major event that aimed to end British rule, restore Indian sovereignty, and expel the British from India.

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    Limited Geographic Scope of the 1857 Revolt

    The 1857 uprising against British rule in India was largely confined to North and Central India, with some regions remaining unaffected.

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    Factors contributing to British Victory in 1857

    The British victory in the 1857 Revolt was largely attributed to their superior military technology, organized communication system, and disciplined army.

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    Leadership Challenges in the 1857 Revolt

    Leadership disunity and lack of a unified vision amongst rebel leaders weakened their efforts during the 1857 Revolt.

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    British Crown Takes Direct Control of India

    After the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the British Crown assumed direct control of India, ending the rule of the East India Company.

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    British Army Reorganization post-1857

    Following the 1857 Revolt, the British reorganized their army in India to prevent similar uprisings in the future.

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    The 1857 Revolt: A Catalyst for Future Struggles

    The 1857 Revolt had a profound impact on India's freedom struggle, inspiring future generations of revolutionaries.

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    Heroes of the 1857 Revolt

    The heroes and leaders of the 1857 Revolt are widely celebrated and remembered in India for their courage and sacrifice in the fight against British rule.

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    The 1857 Revolt: A Turning Point

    The 1857 Revolt served as a significant turning point in the history of India's struggle for independence, showcasing the potential for organized resistance against colonial rule.

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    What was the First War of Independence?

    The Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Independence, was a rebellion against British rule in India that began in Meerut in 1857.

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    Why did the Sepoy Mutiny fail?

    The uprising was not planned properly, breaking out before the intended date.

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    Was there unity among the rebels?

    The lack of unity between different groups of rebels hindered their efforts. They lacked a common ideology and goals.

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    Who participated in the Sepoy Mutiny?

    The revolt's strength came from the participation of peasants and artisans, who recognized the injustices of British rule.

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    Did the Sepoy Mutiny reflect any unity?

    The revolt was a display of Hindu-Muslim unity. Both communities came together against the common enemy, the British.

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    What crucial event weakened the Sepoy Mutiny?

    The recapture of Delhi and the imprisonment of Bahadur Shah Zafar dealt a major blow, weakening the rebellion.

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    What was the outcome of the Sepoy Mutiny?

    The suppression of the Sepoy Mutiny, although a great event, effectively ended the rebellion.

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    Study Notes

    The First War of Independence (1857)

    • The revolt began on May 10, 1857, in Meerut Cantonment with soldier mutinies.
    • Soldiers marched to Delhi, entering the Red Fort on May 11, 1857.
    • Bahadur Shah Zafar II, the Mughal Emperor, was declared the leader of the revolt.
    • The revolt spread to various parts of India, involving peasants, artisans, soldiers, and Indian rulers.
    • Hindus and Muslims united against foreign domination.
    • The revolt was also known as the Sepoy Mutiny and the Uprising of 1857.
    • Indian historians refer to it as the First War of Independence.

    Causes of the Revolt

    • Political:

    • Resentment against British policies, particularly the Doctrine of Lapse.

    • Annexation of Indian states without natural heirs.

    • Violations of treaties with Indian rulers.

    • Loss of power and influence for Indian rulers.

    • British interference in Indian social customs.

    • Economic:

    • British economic exploitation, damaging traditional Indian trade.

    • British policies forced peasants to only grow crops for British, leading to unemployment.

    • British goods destroying Indian industries and flooding the Indian market.

    • Increased taxes and land revenue.

    • Loss of Indian wealth and resources.

    • Social and Religious:

    • Resentment towards British social reforms

    • Concerns that Christian converts would be able to inherit property.

    • Fear of loss of caste due to spread of railways and western culture.

    • Discrimination against Indians in British military.

    • Rumors spread; rumours suggested the British were mixing cow/pig bones with food to harm Indians.

    • Social reforms perceived as an interference in Indian customs and traditions (interference in religious practices).

    • Racial discrimination by the British.

    • Military:

    • Discrimination against Indian soldiers in pay, promotions, and treatment.

    • Introduction of Enfield rifle cartridges greased with animal fat (cow and pig).

    • This was viewed as offensive by both Hindus and Muslims.

    • Indian soldiers expected to travel oversees and believed this would threaten their caste.

    Course of the Revolt

    • The revolt started in Meerut, then spread to Delhi.
    • Nana Saheb and Tantya Tope led the revolt in Kanpur.
    • Rani Lakshmi Bai led the revolt in Jhansi.
    • Kunwar Singh played a crucial role in Bihar.
    • The revolt spread throughout North and Central India.

    Suppression of the Revolt

    • British military re-established control in key areas.
    • Bahadur Shah Zafar II was exiled.
    • Key leaders, including Rani Lakshmi Bai and Tantya Tope, were killed in battle or captured.
    • The revolt was suppressed.

    Causes of Failure

    • Lack of unity among the rebels, different goals.
    • The revolt was primarily confined to North India, not spreading across the entire country.
    • Lack of adequate strategy and communication.
    • Inadequate arms and military support compared to the British.

    Results of the Revolt

    • The East India Company was dissolved, and the British Crown took over the administration of India.
    • The title of Empress of India was assumed by Queen Victoria.
    • The army and policies were reorganized to avoid future uprisings.
    • Religious freedom was guaranteed.
    • Representation of Indians in government.

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    Explore the key events and causes of the First War of Independence in India. This quiz covers the revolt that began in 1857, the role of Bahadur Shah Zafar II, and the unifying efforts of Hindus and Muslims against British rule. Test your knowledge of this significant event in Indian history.

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