Indian Rebellion of 1857

Overview

• Major uprising against British East India Company in 1857-58.
• Began as a mutiny by sepoys in Meerut, expanded to civilian rebellions.
• Posed a significant military threat to British power in India.
• Resulted in British victory and significant territorial changes.

Causes of the Rebellion

• The Enfield Rifle: Rumors that cartridges were greased with cow and pig fat, offending Hindu and Muslim religious sensibilities.
• Civilian Disquiet: Discontent over the Doctrine of Lapse, land reforms, and fear of forced religious conversion.
• Bengal Army: High-caste sepoys' grievances over loss of privileges and overseas service obligations.

Key Figures

• Indian Leaders: Bahadur Shah II, Nana Sahib, Rani Lakshmibai, Tatya Tope.
• British Leaders: The Earl Canning, Sir Colin Campbell, Sir Hugh Rose.

Major Events

• Outbreak: Initial mutiny in Meerut on 10 May 1857.
• Delhi: Captured by rebels; Bahadur Shah Zafar declared Emperor of Hindustan.
• Key Battles:
  • Siege of Delhi: British retook Delhi in September 1857.
  • Cawnpore: Site of a massacre of British captives.
  • Lucknow: Prolonged siege, ultimately relieved by British forces.
  • Jhansi: Rani Lakshmibai became a symbol of resistance.

Consequences

• Massive death toll with estimates of 800,000 Indians dead, including from famine and disease.
• The rebellion ended the rule of the East India Company.
• Establishment of the British Raj and direct rule by the British Crown.
• Military and administrative reorganization.

Aftermath

• Queen Victoria's proclamation promised equal treatment for Indians, but promises often unmet.
• Rebellion influenced nationalist movements and future resistance against British rule.
• Significant changes in British military recruitment and administration.

Nomenclature and Historical Debate

• Known by various names: Sepoy Mutiny, Indian Mutiny, First War of Independence.
• Debate over whether it was a national war of independence or a series of mutinies.

Cultural Impact

• Significant influence on Indian historiography and nationalist thought.
• Depicted in literature, films, and other cultural media.

References and Further Reading

• Extensive historiography with varying interpretations of the events and their significance.
• Further reading includes works by authors such as William Dalrymple, Eric Stokes, Chris Bayly.