FIRST WAR OF INDEPENDENCE 1857

What was a key political cause of the Revolt of 1857 related to territorial expansion by the British?

The British implemented policies like the Doctrine of Lapse and the Subsidiary Alliance System which expanded their control over Indian territories.

What was the Doctrine of Lapse?

It was a policy introduced by Lord Dalhousie stating that if an Indian ruler died without a male heir, his kingdom would pass to the British.

Which kingdom was notably affected by the Doctrine of Lapse, leading to rebellion?

Jhansi, where Rani Laxmibai rose in revolt after her kingdom was annexed.

What action did Lord Dalhousie take that caused anguish in Awadh?

He annexed Awadh, claiming mismanagement, which violated promises made to Indian rulers.

How did the British show disrespect toward Bahadur Shah Zafar?

They declared him the last Mughal king and removed his name from minted coins.

What socio-religious reform did the British implement that upset many Indians?

The ban on the practice of sati in 1829, which was seen as interference in social customs.

What law passed in 1850 was viewed as a tool for religious conversion by the British?

A law allowing Indians who converted to Christianity to inherit ancestral property.

What economic policy led to the decline of handicraft industries in India during British rule?

The British free trade policy that favored cheap English machine-made goods over Indian handicrafts.

How did British policies contribute to the plight of Indian peasants?

High taxes and rising land revenues forced many peasants to sell their lands.

What was a military cause of the Revolt of 1857 regarding treatment of Indian soldiers?

Indian soldiers were ill-treated, received lower pay, and faced humiliation from British officers.

What legislation required sepoys to travel overseas, causing religious concerns among them?

The General Service Enlistment Act of 1856.

What was the immediate cause of the Revolt of 1857 concerning a new rifle?

The introduction of the Enfield Rifle, with cartridges believed to be greased with beef and pork fat.

Who led the initial uprising in Meerut that sparked the wider revolt?

Mangal Pandey, who attacked his officers over the greased cartridges.

What was the British response to the revolt in Delhi?

After recapturing Delhi, Bahadur Shah Zafar was found guilty of aiding the rebellion and exiled.

What proclamation did Queen Victoria make following the revolt?

She promised non-intervention in social and religious matters and equality between British and Indian subjects.

What was a significant consequence of the revolt regarding the governance of India?

The British Crown took direct control, abolishing the East India Company’s rule.

What policy did the British adopt towards Indian princes after the revolt?

They abandoned the Doctrine of Lapse, rewarding princes who remained loyal during the revolt.

How did the British view the participants of the revolt in terms of trust?

They subjected Indians to racial discrimination and considered them unworthy of trust.

What impact did the Revolt of 1857 have on the rise of Indian nationalism?

It inspired the Indian National Movement and influenced future resistance against British rule.

What limitations were noted regarding the Revolt of 1857?

The revolt was not widespread, lacking support from many Indian rulers and sectors of educated society.