War of Independence: The Great Rebellion

Questions and Answers

What policy did the East India Company use to erode the power of local rulers?

Doctrine of Freedom

Direct Rule

Policy of Equity

Doctrine of Lapse (correct)

The Indian sepoys had no reasons for discontent with the East India Company.

False

Who was declared the last Mughal king in 1856?

Bahadur Shah Zafar

In 1850, a new law was passed to facilitate conversion to __________.

<p>Christianity</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following groups with their reactions to East India Company policies:

<p>Nawabs and Rajas = Attempted to negotiate with the Company Landlords and Peasants = Lost their lands Christian Missionaries = Gained freedom to operate Indian Sepoys = Unhappy with pay and service conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Background of the Great Rebellion

East India Company's policies, especially the Doctrine of Lapse and Annexation Policy, led to erosion of local rulers' power.
Nawabs and rajas gradually lost their authority and honor over time, prompting unsuccessful negotiations with the Company to safeguard their interests.
Company intended to end the Mughal dynasty, with Governor-General Canning declaring Bahadur Shah Zafar the last Mughal king in 1856.
After Zafar's death, his descendants would only be recognized as princes, diminishing their royal status.
Heavy taxation and strict revenue collection affected landlords and peasants, resulting in widespread loss of ancestral lands.
The Company permitted Christian missionaries in their territories, causing unrest among local populations.
Legislation in 1850 facilitated conversion to Christianity, allowing converts to inherit ancestral properties, leading to fears of cultural and religious erosion.
Indian sepoys employed by the Company expressed discontent over low pay, inadequate allowances, and unfavorable service conditions.
Newly imposed rules by the Company sparked tensions, violating religious sensibilities and beliefs of the sepoys.

Description

This quiz explores the impact of the East India Company's policies on various groups during the Great Rebellion of 1857. It focuses on the socio-political dynamics affecting local rulers, peasants, and soldiers. Test your knowledge about the causes and consequences of this significant uprising.