The Revolt of 1857 in India

Leaders of the Revolt

• Major leaders included figures such as Mangal Pandey, Rani Lakshmibai, Bahadur Shah II, and Tatya Tope.
• Each leader played a crucial role in mobilizing support against British rule.

Timeline of the Revolt

• The revolt of 1857 occurred between May and November of 1857.
• It marked a significant uprising against the British East India Company's control.

Causes of the Revolt

• Cultural and political discontent fueled dissatisfaction with British policies.
• Key factor included the introduction of the Enfield rifle, which upset Indian soldiers due to animal fat used in cartridges seen as offensive to religious beliefs.

Participants

• The revolt involved a diverse coalition of soldiers (sepoys), peasants, landowners, and various ethnic groups.
• It showcased unity among different sections of Indian society against colonial rule.

Immediate Causes

• The immediate trigger was the mutiny of sepoys at Meerut on May 10, 1857.
• This uprising quickly escalated into a widespread rebellion across northern India.

Outcomes of the Revolt

• The revolt was ultimately suppressed by British forces by late 1858.
• Resulted in the dissolution of the British East India Company and the establishment of direct British rule in India.