The Revolt of 1857 Quiz
32 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What term did British historians use to describe the revolt of 1857?

  • The Sepoy Rebellion (correct)
  • The Indian Insurrection
  • The First War of Freedom
  • The Great Uprising

Which policy did Lord Dalhousie implement that angered Indian rulers and their subjects?

  • Doctrine of Subordination
  • Doctrine of Lapse (correct)
  • Economic Exploitation Policy
  • Policy of Reconciliation

What was the reaction of Nana Saheb regarding the British government?

  • He became a leader of the revolt. (correct)
  • He supported British policies.
  • He remained neutral in the conflict.
  • He emigrated to a foreign country.

What impact did the annexation of Awadh have on Indian sentiments?

<p>It caused widespread outrage among Indian people. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which Mughal emperor faced humiliation due to British policies during the revolt?

<p>Bahadur Shah Zafar (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the British's disregard for treaties affect Indian rulers?

<p>It caused fear and insecurity among them. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant economic cause of resentment against British rule?

<p>The British land revenue system (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment was particularly hurt due to the treatment of Bahadur Shah Zafar?

<p>Muslim sentiments (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What event triggered the revolt of the sepoys in Meerut?

<p>The refusal of 85 soldiers to use new rifles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who accepted leadership of the Revolt after the capture of Delhi?

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

What characterizes the aftermath of the Revolt in Kanpur?

<p>Nana Saheb proclaimed himself the Peshwa. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding Rani Lakshmi bai?

<p>She died fighting and became a symbol of bravery. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What consequence resulted from the Revolt of 1857 regarding British administration in India?

<p>The transition to direct rule from the British Parliament. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant action taken by Queen Victoria following the Revolt?

<p>She issued a Proclamation for Indian welfare. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which notable event is linked to the end of the Mughal dynasty?

<p>The trial and execution of Bahadur Shah Zafar. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major military event occurred in Lucknow during the Revolt?

<p>The British forces were besieged for several months. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the sepoys in Meerut react to the punishment of their comrades?

<p>They stormed the jail to free them. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What ultimately led to the suppression of the Revolt of 1857?

<p>The arrival of British reinforcements. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were some consequences of the zamindari system for the Indian peasantry?

<p>Severe oppression and exploitation of peasants (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which social reform measure introduced by the British caused resentment among orthodox Hindus?

<p>Introduction of women's education (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did British policies affect traditional handicraft industries in India?

<p>They collapsed due to lack of support. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary grievance of the sepoys leading up to the Revolt of 1857?

<p>Discrimination in promotion opportunities (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What immediate event sparked the Revolt of 1857?

<p>Introduction of the Enfield Rifle's greased cartridges (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did the British judicial system cause unrest among the Indian upper classes?

<p>It introduced the principle of equality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of the annexation of Awadh for local officials?

<p>Loss of livelihood for hundreds of court officials (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the perception of the new telegraph system among villagers?

<p>A form of Western magic generating fear (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group felt particularly threatened by the introduction of Western education?

<p>Pundits and maulvis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a reason for the grievances that sepoys had against their British officers?

<p>Discrimination in pay and treatment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one effect of the British looking down upon Indians?

<p>Racial discrimination and social contempt (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happened to the estates of zamindars and talukdars after the annexation of Awadh?

<p>They became part of British territories. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the effect of the introduction of Western culture on Indian society?

<p>Fear and disturbance among the population (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who engaged in the first act of rebellion during the Revolt of 1857?

<p>Mangal Pandey (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

British Annexation Policy

The British annexation of Indian states, especially using the 'Doctrine of Lapse', led to widespread resentment and contributed to the Revolt of 1857.

Doctrine of Lapse

The Doctrine of Lapse, a British policy, stated that if an Indian ruler died without a natural heir, the state would be annexed by the British. This policy was seen as unjust and fueled resentment.

Annexation of Awadh

The annexation of Awadh, a loyal and friendly ally, angered the Indian people. The British claimed maladministration as the reason, but it was seen as a violation of trust.

Nana Saheb's Grievances

Nana Saheb, adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II, was denied a pension by the British after his father's death. This injustice fueled his anger and made him a key leader of the Revolt.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mughal Emperor's Humiliation

Bahadur Shah Zafar, the Mughal emperor, was humiliated by the British decision to move him away from the Red Fort, reducing his power and insulting the Mughal dynasty.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Economic Exploitation

The British introduced land revenue systems, including the Zamindari system, which caused hardship and exploitation of peasants. This fueled resentment and dissatisfaction.

Signup and view all the flashcards

First War of Indian Independence

The Revolt of 1857 is often referred to as the 'First War of Indian Independence' by Indian historians, reflecting the widespread desire for freedom from British rule.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Significance of the Revolt

The Revolt of 1857 was a significant turning point in India's history, highlighting the deep-seated resentment against British rule and ultimately contributing to the eventual independence of India.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What sparked the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857?

The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 began in Meerut when 85 soldiers refused to use new rifles. They were punished harshly, leading to a revolt that spread throughout India.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How did the Sepoy Mutiny transform into a war for independence?

The sepoys in Delhi rose in rebellion and declared Bahadur Shah Zafar as the Emperor of Hindustan. This marked a turning point, as the mutiny evolved into a broader struggle for independence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who led the revolt in Kanpur?

Nana Saheb, the adopted son of the former Peshwa, led the revolt in Kanpur. He captured the city and proclaimed himself Peshwa, but ultimately lost control to British reinforcements.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What was the outcome of the Sepoy Mutiny?

The Sepoy Mutiny was brutally suppressed by the British. Thousands of rebels were executed, Bahadur Shah Zafar was exiled, and the Mughal dynasty came to an end.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What was the long-term impact of the Sepoy Mutiny?

The Sepoy Mutiny was a major turning point in India's history, effectively ending rule by the British East India Company and placing India under direct British Crown rule.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Who was Rani Lakshmibai and what was her role in the Sepoy Mutiny?

Rani Lakshmibai, the Queen of Jhansi, was a prominent figure in the Sepoy Mutiny. She fought bravely against the British, symbolizing courage and inspiring future generations of freedom fighters.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What areas were affected by the Sepoy Mutiny?

The Sepoy Mutiny ignited widespread rebellions across various regions of India, including the North-Western Province, Central India, and Western Bihar.

Signup and view all the flashcards

How did the Sepoy Mutiny affect British rule in India?

The Sepoy Mutiny had a profound impact on India's relationship with Britain. It led to increased British control and a shift in the way India was governed.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What was the Sepoy Mutiny?

The Sepoy Mutiny, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857, was a major uprising against British rule in India. It was triggered by the controversial introduction of new Enfield rifles, whose cartridges were greased with animal fat, which was offensive to both Hindus and Muslims.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What were some of the policies enacted by the British government after the Sepoy Mutiny?

Queen Victoria, upon assuming control of India following the Sepoy Mutiny, issued a proclamation promising to protect the welfare of the Indian people, honor existing treaties, and abolish the Doctrine of Lapse, which allowed the British to annex states with no male heir.

Signup and view all the flashcards

The Zamindari System

The Zamindari system was a land revenue system where Zamindars (landlords) were granted the right to collect revenue from peasants. It led to oppression, exploitation by moneylenders, and ultimately, widespread poverty.

Signup and view all the flashcards

British Annexation of Indian States

The British annexation of Indian states was a key factor in the discontent that led to the 1857 rebellion. Landlords and officials lost their jobs, resulting in economic hardship and resentment towards colonial rule.

Signup and view all the flashcards

British Social Reforms

The social reform measures introduced by the British to address issues like Sati and female infanticide were seen as attacks on traditional Indian values and practices by some, leading to resentment and a sense of cultural threat.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Missionary Activities

Missionary activities aimed at converting Indians to Christianity caused strong religious opposition. They were viewed as a threat to Hinduism and Islam, generating resentment and religious tension.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Western Education in India

The introduction of Western education, with its focus on British ideals and languages, was seen as undermining traditional Indian education and values. It led to concerns regarding cultural erosion and resentment towards the British.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Modern Technologies Introduced by the British

The introduction of railways and modern communication systems like the telegraph raised fears among the Indian population, particularly in rural areas, about the potential impact on their lives and the intentions of the British.

Signup and view all the flashcards

British Judicial System & Caste System

The British principle of equality before the law, while intended to be fair, was perceived as a threat to the existing caste system and the privileges enjoyed by upper castes in India, causing resentment towards the British.

Signup and view all the flashcards

British Racial Discrimination

The British adopted a policy of racial discrimination, treating Indian soldiers and civilians with disdain and contempt, fostering a sense of resentment and a desire for independence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Indian Sepoys' Grievances

Indian sepoys, while loyal to the British, felt they were not adequately rewarded or treated fairly. They faced discrimination, lower pay, unfavorable working conditions, and a limited potential for advancement.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Enfield Rifle & Greased Cartridges

The introduction of the greased cartridges for the Enfield rifle sparked the rebellion of 1857. The use of animal fat, considered sacred by Hindus and Muslims, sparked widespread anger and religious outrage.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Disbandment of Awadh's Army

The annexation of Awadh led to the disbandment of the Nawab's army, leaving numerous soldiers unemployed and fueling resentment towards the British, contributing to the 1857 Rebellion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mangal Pandey

Mangal Pandey, a sepoy, opposed the use of the greased cartridges, triggering the rebellion. He was hanged, but his bravery inspired others to fight for their rights.

Signup and view all the flashcards

The Indian Rebellion of 1857

The 1857 Rebellion occurred due to various factors, including British policies, social reforms, and the greased cartridges. It marked a turning point in India's struggle for independence.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Significance of the 1857 Rebellion

The Indian Rebellion of 1857 was a significant turning point in the history of India, leading to greater awareness of the need for self-rule and setting the stage for the Indian independence movement.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

The Revolt of 1857

  • The 1857 revolt, sparked by resentment against British rule, was a pivotal moment in Indian history. British historians termed it the "Sepoy Mutiny," while Indians refer to it as the "Great Revolt of 1857" or the "First War of Indian Independence."

Causes of the Revolt

Political Causes

  • Lord Dalhousie's aggressive expansionist policies and the Doctrine of Lapse, annexing states like Satara, Nagpur, and Jhansi, fuelled resentment.
  • The annexation of Jhansi's territory made Rani Lakshmibai a powerful enemy of the British.
  • Nana Sahib, denied pension after his father's death, became a leading figure in the revolt.
  • Bahadur Shah Zafar, the Mughal emperor, was forced to relocate, diminishing his prestige and deeply impacting Muslim sentiments.
  • The annexation of Awadh, citing misgovernance, angered many Indians, especially those in Awadh itself. Awadh had been a friendly and subordinate ally, the Nawab was exiled.
  • Britain routinely violated existing treaties with Indian rulers, creating fear and instability among them.

Economic Causes

  • British economic exploitation ruined traditional Indian industries.
  • British land revenue policies, specifically the zamindari system, led to peasant hardship, oppression by zamindars, and exploitation by moneylenders, frequently resulting in famine.
  • Landlords lost possessions when unable to present proper ownership titles.
  • Annexations led to widespread unemployment in court and royal service positions, harming those who depended on royal patronage.

Social and Religious Causes

  • Western culture's spread upset many Indians.
  • Social reforms, like abolishing sati and female infanticide and the introduction of widow remarriage, were seen as attacks on Indian traditions.
  • Missionary efforts to convert the population to Christianity offended religious sentiments.
  • Western education was perceived as undermining traditional Indian scholars.
  • Introduction of railroads and telegraphs created fear and mistrust among villagers.
  • The British justice system challenged existing caste norms and privileges.
  • British racial discrimination and social isolation further fueled discontent.

Military Causes

  • Sepoy grievances from within the British Indian Army included: lack of appreciation for service, pay and treatment disparities between British and Indian soldiers, limited career advancement for Indian soldiers (no promotion beyond a certain rank), poor living conditions, and the 1856 Act requiring service over seas.
  • Disbanding of the Nawab of Awadh's army after annexation left soldiers unemployed, adding to their anger.
  • The disproportionate number of Indian troops in comparison to British troops further emboldened them to revolt.

Immediate Cause of the Revolt

  • The greased cartridges of the Enfield Rifle, rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat (a religious insult to both Hindus and Muslims) served as the spark needed to ignite the revolt.

Main Events of the Revolt

  • Meerut: Sepoys revolted, freeing their imprisoned comrades, attacking British officers, burning bungalows, and cutting telegraph lines, as a catalyst for the revolt.
  • Delhi: Sepoys joined local troops in Delhi, killing British officials and declaring Bahadur Shah Zafar the emperor of Hindustan, effectively leading to a broader war of independence.
  • Kanpur: Nana Sahib led the revolt, which proved short-lived after British reinforcements arrived and captured the city, leading to tough consequences.
  • Lucknow: The revolt in Lucknow, led by Hazrat Mahal, saw a prolonged siege of the British Residency before British reinforcements arrived.
  • Jhansi: Rani Lakshmibai, courageously fighting, led the revolt resulting in a fierce struggle between her forces and the British.

Results of the Revolt

  • The British East India Company's rule ended, transferring power to the British Crown.
  • The Doctrine of Lapse was abolished, and the right to adopt heirs was restored.
  • Queen Victoria issued a proclamation promising to safeguard Indian interests, although this led to the gradual loss of certain rights under indirect rule.
  • Note:* The revolt was eventually crushed, leading to a harsh crackdown and a period of immense loss.  Rani Lakshmibai and many other leaders who fought the British were killed.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Description

Test your knowledge on the causes and events of the Revolt of 1857, a significant uprising against British rule in India. Understand the political dynamics and key figures involved in this pivotal moment in Indian history. This quiz will challenge your grasp of the historical context and implications of the revolt.

Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser