The Great Uprising of 1857 Quiz

The Great Uprising of 1857

• The Sepoy Mutiny, also known as the First War of Independence, began in January 1857.
• Initial spark was the issue of the new rifle cartridges greased with cow and pig fat.
• This violated religious customs, causing outrage among sepoys (Indian soldiers in the British army).
• The mutiny quickly spread across Awadh (United Provinces) and other regions.
• Religious and social tensions played a significant role in the unrest.
• This revolt was a culmination of years of grievances against British policies.

Causes of the Uprising

• Economic Exploitation: British policies aimed to extract resources from India, leading to misery for peasants and other segments of society.
• Political Control: British expansion and direct rule over Indian territories created resentment among various social groups who opposed the loss of autonomy.
• Economic Grievances: High taxes and exploitative revenue systems fueled discontent among peasants and other economic classes in India.
• Tyrannical British Rule: The accumulated grievances against tyrannical rule created a widespread sentiment of resistance.
• Social Issues: Rigid caste system and other social customs were affected by British policies, causing resentment.
• Discrimination and Poor Treatment: Indian people were badly treated and often discriminated by British officers.

British Political Supremacy

• By the mid-1800s, the British had established a strong political presence in India through direct and indirect rule.
• Even though the Mughal Empire was in name only, the British administration acknowledged its existence.
• The Battle of Plassey marked a significant British victory, opening the way for expanding influence.
• The British East India company slowly extended its control over India.