Revolt of 1857 is part of Modern History of India. Below are notes on 12 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Background and Precursors to the Revolt of 1857

Political Causes: Policy of Annexation (e.g., 1. Doctrine of Lapse by Dalhousie, annexing Satara, Jhansi, Nagpur; annexation of Awadh on misgovernance pretext); disrespect to Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah II; abolition of titles and pensions. Economic Causes: Heavy taxation, exploitat2. ive land revenue policies (Permanent Settlement, Ryotwari, Mahalwari); destruction of traditional Indian industries; decline of feudal lords and zamindars. Socio-Religious Causes: Perceived interfer3. ence in social customs (e.g., Sati abolition, Widow Remarriage Act); activities of Christian missionaries; taxation of temple and mosque lands; racial discrimination. Military Causes: General Service Enlistment 4. Act (1856) requiring sepoys to serve overseas; discrimination in pay, promotion, and service conditions; refusal to pay 'bhatta' (foreign service allowance).

Causes for the Failure of the Revolt

  • Lack of unified leadership, organization, and a common ideology among rebels.
  • No coordinated plan or central command structure for the rebellion.
  • Limited territorial spread, primarily confined to North and Central India.
  • Lack of support from all sections of Indian society: many native rulers (e.g., Scindia of Gwalior, Holkar of Indore, Nizam of Hyderabad, rulers of Patiala, Nabha, Jind, Kashmir, and Rajputana), big zamindars, and the educated middle class remained loyal to the British or aloof.
  • Military superiority of the British: better arms, disciplined army, superior leadership (e.g., Havelock, Outram, Campbell), and effective communication (telegraph).
  • Rebels lacked modern weaponry, adequate resources, and a strong reserve.
  • Bahadur Shah Zafar's leadership was largely nominal and ineffective, failing to inspire widespread popular support or coordinate rebel activities.
  • The revolt's vision was backward-looking, seeking to restore old feudal orders rather than establishing a new political or social system.

Course and Spread of the Revolt

  • The general Revolt of 1857 officially started on 10 May 1857 at Meerut when sepoys openly revolted.
  • An earlier incident occurred on 29 March 1857 at Barrackpore, where Sepoy Mangal Pandey attacked his officers. He was executed on 8 April 1857.
  • Rebels from Meerut marched to Delhi, arriving on 11 May 1857, and proclaimed Bahadur Shah II as the Emperor of Hindustan. Delhi was recaptured by the British on 20 September 1857.
  • Lucknow: Revolt began on 4 June 1857, led by Begum Hazrat Mahal (for her minor son Birjis Qadir).
  • Kanpur: Revolt began on 5 June 1857, led by Nana Saheb (proclaimed himself Peshwa) and his general Tantia Tope.
  • Jhansi: Revolt began on 5 June 1857, led by Rani Lakshmibai. Tantia Tope also assisted her.
  • Faizabad: The revolt was led by Maulvi Ahmadullah.
  • Bareilly: The revolt was led by Khan Bahadur Khan.
  • Rajasthan: The revolt started at Nasirabad on 28 May 1857.
  • Azamgarh Proclamation (Manifesto of 1857 Revolutionaries): Issued on 25 August 1857 by the rebels, outlining their vision for an alternative administration.
  • Areas largely unaffected or with less intensity included Punjab, Bengal (largely), Bombay Presidency, Madras Presidency, princely states like Hyderabad, Mysore, Travancore, and most of Rajputana. The Chambal region also saw less intensity compared to major centres.
  • The Holkar of Indore remained loyal to the British, but some of his troops did join the revolt against his wishes.
  • The Sindhia of Gwalior also remained loyal to the British and sought refuge in Agra when his troops revolted.
  • Key centres successfully recaptured by the British included Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Jhansi.

Economic Causes (Land revenue policies, de-industrialisation, poverty)

  • British economic exploitation led to widespread discontent among all sections of Indian society.
  • Land Revenue Policies:
    • Imposed heavy land revenue demands across various systems (Permanent Settlement, Ryotwari, Mahalwari), leading to peasant impoverishment.
    • New land revenue systems disrupted traditional landholding patterns and alienated large numbers of peasants and landlords.
    • Confiscation of jagirs (land grants) and inam (tax-free land) lands further dispossessed traditional elites.
    • Oudh (Awadh) Annexation (1856) & Summary Settlement:
      • Implemented in Awadh after its annexation in 1856.
      • Assumption: Talukdars were "interlopers" with no permanent stakes in the land, aiming to settle land directly with cultivators.
      • Resulted in the dispossession of many Talukdars (feudal landlords) and an increase in revenue demands on peasants.
      • Both Talukdars and peasants were aggrieved, as traditional patron-client relationships were broken.
    • Overall, these policies led to inordinately high revenue demands, uprooting of ordinary peasants, and destruction of the gentry (Talukdars/Zamindars), driving them to join the revolt.
  • De-industrialisation:
    • Destruction of traditional Indian industries (e.g., textiles, handicrafts) due to British colonial policies, free trade, and competition from machine-made British goods.
    • Artisans, weavers, and craftsmen lost their livelihoods, forcing them to become agricultural laborers or seek employment in an already burdened agricultural sector.
    • Loss of patronage from native courts further worsened their situation.
  • Poverty & Indebtedness:
    • Economic policies resulted in widespread poverty, frequent famines, and increasing rural indebtedness.
    • Peasants often had to borrow from moneylenders at high interest rates to pay land revenue, leading to land alienation and servitude.

Historiography of the Revolt of 1857

  • British Historians' Views:
    • T.R. Holmes: Popularized the view of the revolt as a "conflict between civilization and barbarism."
    • Sir John Seeley: Described it as a "purely unpatriotic and selfish sepoy mutiny with no native leadership and no popular support."
    • Sir James Outram & W. Taylor: Viewed it as a "Hindu-Muslim conspiracy." (Outram specifically termed it a "Muslim conspiracy, making capital of Hindu grievances").
    • Sir John Lawrence: Primarily considered it a sepoy mutiny.
    • L.E.R. Rees: Called it "a fanatical revolt of the heathen against Christians."
    • W.H. Russel: Correspondent for 'The Times' (London) in 1857, noted antiwhite sentiment in North India.
  • Indian Historians' Views:
    • V.D. Savarkar: Wrote "The Indian War of Independence, 1857" (published 1909), describing it as the first planned war of national independence.
    • Dr. R.C. Majumdar: Wrote "The Sepoy Mutiny and the Revolt of 1857." Did not accept it as a national revolution, viewing it primarily as a sepoy mutiny. Argued that Indian nationalism was in an "embryonic stage."
    • Dr. S.N. Sen: Authored "Eighteen Fifty Seven," the official history commissioned by the Indian government. Stated it began as a fight for religion but ended as a war of independence. Described the Meerut revolt as "like summer gale, unprecedented and short-lived." Also believed Indian nationalism was in an "embryonic stage."
    • S.B. Chaudhuri: Wrote "Civil Rebellions in the Indian Mutinies, 1857-1859," emphasizing widespread civil participation alongside sepoy mutiny.
  • Other Interpretations:
    • Karl Marx & Friedrich Engels: Articles compiled as "The First Indian War of Independence, 1857-1859."
  • Key Figures & Books:
    • Official History of Revolt of 1857: "Eighteen Fifty Seven" by Dr. S.N. Sen.
    • "From Sepoy to Subedar": Contemporary account written by Sitaram Pandey.
    • "Awadh in Revolt (1857-1858)": Written by Rudrangshu Mukherjee.
  • Societal Reactions:
    • The decided Indian middle class generally opposed or remained neutral to the Revolt of 1857.

Immediate Cause: The Greased Cartridge Incident

The immediate cause for the Revolt of 1857 1. was the introduction of the new Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle. Its cartridges were rumored to be greased 2. with animal fat (cow and pig), offensive to Hindu and Muslim sepoys respectively, as the end had to be bitten off before loading. Mangal Pandey, a sepoy of the 34th Bengal 3. Native Infantry (BNI), stationed at Barrackpore (near Calcutta). On March 29, 1857, Mangal Pandey revolted 4. at Barrackpore, attacking his European officers (Lt. Baugh and Sgt. Major Hewson) over the greased cartridge issue. He was captured, court-martialled, and ex5. ecuted by hanging on April 8, 1857. The 34th BNI regiment was disbanded as a 6. collective punishment. This incident at Barrackpore, led by Mangal 7. Pandey, is considered the first major act of defiance and the direct trigger for the largescale Revolt of 1857.

Impact and Consequences of the Revolt (Government of India Act 1858, Queen's Proclamation, military reorganisation)

  • Government of India Act 1858:
    • Enacted on August 2, 1858.
    • Transferred governance from East India Company to the British Crown.
    • Abolished the Board of Control and Court of Directors.
    • Created the office of Secretary of State for India, assisted by a 15-member India Council.
    • The Governor-General of India was redesignated as the Viceroy of India.
    • Lord Canning became the first Viceroy.
  • Queen's Proclamation (1st November, 1858):
    • Read out by Lord Canning at Allahabad.
    • Declared the formal assumption of power by the British Crown in India.
    • Key Provisions:
      • Renounced territorial expansion ("no desire to expand the empire").
      • Promised religious tolerance and non-interference in religious matters.
      • Assured native princes that their rights, dignity, and honour would be respected, maintaining treaties (Crown's paramountcy).
      • Offered general pardon to rebels not guilty of murder.
      • Promised equal and impartial protection of law and opportunities in public service to all subjects, irrespective of race or creed.
  • Military Reorganisation:
    • Implemented based on the Peel Commission Report (1858).
    • Increased the ratio of European to Indian soldiers (e.g., Bengal Army: 1:2; Madras/Bombay Armies: 1:3).
    • Key strategic branches like artillery were exclusively placed under European control.
    • Implemented a "divide and rule" policy by forming regiments based on caste, community, and region ("class companies") to prevent unified revolts.
    • Promoted the theory of "martial races" (e.g., Sikhs, Gurkhas, Pathans) for preferential recruitment.
  • Other Major Consequences:
    • End of the Mughal Dynasty: Bahadur Shah Zafar was tried, exiled to Rangoon, Burma, where he died in 1862.
    • Deepened racial animosity and distrust between the British and Indians.
    • Led to a period of reduced direct British interference in socio-religious affairs.
    • Contributed to the rise of Indian nationalism.

Key Centres and Leaders of the Revolt (Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, Arrah, Faizabad, Bareilly)

  • Delhi:
    • Leaders: Bahadur Shah Zafar (last Mughal emperor, nominal head), Bakht Khan (chief military commander, led sepoy contingent from Bareilly).
    • Bahadur Shah Zafar: Exiled to Rangoon (Myanmar) after the revolt; his 'empire' was satirically described as extending from Chandni Chowk to Palam.
    • Bakht Khan: Bestowed title 'Saheb-eAlam Bahadur' by Bahadur Shah.
    • Nawab Hamid Ali Khan also associated with Delhi.
    • British Political Agent: Simon Fraser (killed).
  • Kanpur:
    • Leader: Nana Saheb (Dhondu Pandit).
    • Nana Saheb: Adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II; Lord Dalhousie refused to recognize him as Peshwa or grant his pension.
    • Military General: Tatya Tope (Ramachandra Pandurang Rao).
    • Advisor to Nana Saheb: Azimullah Khan.
    • Headquarters: Bittoor (Brahmavarta).
    • Nana Saheb, along with Begum Hazrat Mahal, escaped to Nepal after the revolt.
    • Seth Amarchand Banthiya provided financial aid to Nana Saheb and Tatya Tope.
  • Lucknow:
    • Leader: Begum Hazrat Mahal (wife of ex-Nawab Wajid Ali Shah).
    • Her young son, Birjis Qadr, was declared 'Wali of Lucknow'.
    • Revolt started on 30th May 1857.
    • British were defeated in the Battle of Chinhat (30th June 1857) by Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah.
    • British took refuge in the Residency, not Begum Hazrat Mahal's palace.
    • Begum Hazrat Mahal escaped to Nepal.
  • Jhansi:
    • Leader: Rani Lakshmibai.
    • Lord Dalhousie applied Doctrine of Lapse, refusing to recognize her adopted son as heir.
    • Described by Sir Hugh Rose as "the best and bravest military leader of the rebels" and "the only man among the rebels".
    • Died fighting in Gwalior on 17th June 1858.
    • Commander (Senapati): Bodhan Doua.
    • Seth Amarchand Banthiya provided financial aid to Rani Lakshmibai and Tatya Tope.
  • Arrah (Bihar):
    • Leader: Kunwar Singh (Landlord of Jagdishpur).
    • Spearheaded the revolt in Bihar; his activities extended to Banda, Kalpi, and Rewa (in UP and MP).
    • His brother, Babu Amar Singh, also led the revolt in Bihar.
  • Faizabad:
    • Leader: Maulavi Ahmadullah Shah.
    • Popularly known as 'Danka Shah' (the drum king).
    • Believed to be a leader of Sanyasis and Fakirs conspiring against the British.
    • Fought the Battle of Chinhat near Lucknow.
  • Bareilly:
    • Leader: Khan Bahadur Khan (declared himself Nawab Nazim).
  • Other Key Leaders/Centres:
    • Allahabad: Maulvi Liyaqat Ali.
    • Assam: Diwan Maniram Dutta (executed for treason in 1858).
    • Raipur (Chhattisgarh): Hanuman Singh (led sepoy revolt in Jan 1858).
    • Singhbhum (Jharkhand): Raja Arjun Singh.
    • Bhopal: Fazil Mohammad Khan, Sheikh Ramzan.
    • Auwa (Rajasthan): Rao Raja Khushal Singh. British Political Agent Captain Monck Mason was killed and his head hung on the fort.
    • Kota (Rajasthan): Major Burton (Resident) and his two sons, and Dr. Sadler were killed on 15th October 1857. Lala Jai Dayal of Kota offered Nazar to the Mughal emperor.
    • Mewar (Udaipur): Maharana Swarup Singh (supported British). Resident: Captain Showers.
    • Jaipur: Resident: Captain Eden.
    • Bharatpur: Resident: Major Abbott.
    • Tonk: Nawab Waziruddoula (sought help from Mewar Maharani).
    • Jodhpur: Maharaja Takhat Singh sent cavalry to Ajmer on orders of AGG George Patrick Lawrence.
    • Mandla (MP): Rani Avantibai Lodhi.
    • Baghelkhand: Thakur Ranmat Singh (hanged Aug 1859).
    • Shah Mal: Mobilised headmen of 'Eighty Four Villages' (Chaurasee des).
    • Mangal Pandey: A soldier of 34th Bengal Native Infantry (Barrackpore); became a martyr on March 29, 1857, before the widespread outbreak.
    • Hyderabad: Turrebaz Khan and Maulvi Allauddin led revolutionaries.
    • Rajputana (AGG): George Patrick Lawrence.
    • Meerut: Site of the initial outbreak of the revolt (May 10, 1857).
    • Ajmer: Arsenal guarded by 15th Native Infantry.
    • Ajnala: Site where mortal remains of 26th Regiment of Bengal Native Infantry were exhumed.
    • Karauli: Maharaja Madan Pal.
    • Bhagat Singh: Did not participate in 1857 revolt (born 1907).

Military Causes (Discrimination, General Service Enlistment Act)

  • Discrimination & Service Conditions:
    • Lower pay, promotion, and pension prospects for Indian sepoys compared to British counterparts.
    • Racial discrimination and contemptuous treatment by British officers.
    • Stoppage of 'Bhatta' (foreign service allowance) for service in annexed territories (e.g., Sindh, Punjab, Awadh).
    • Efforts by British officers to spread Christianity among sepoys, viewed as an attack on their religion.
  • General Service Enlistment Act (1856):
    • Passed by Lord Canning, requiring new recruits to swear an oath to serve anywhere, including overseas.
    • Offended high-caste Hindu sepoys, who considered sea-voyage ('kala pani') a loss of caste.
    • Caused deep suspicion among existing sepoys about future service terms.
  • Pre-Meerut Unrest (Precursors to 1857 Revolt):
    • Feb 1857: 19th Native Infantry at Berhampur revolted over new cartridges.
    • Mar 1857: 34th Native Infantry at Barrackpore mutinied (Mangal Pandey incident).
    • Early 1857: 7th Oudh (Awadh) Irregular Infantry also refused greased cartridges.
  • Loyalty & Disloyalty of Armies:
    • Bengal Army was the primary source of rebellion, heavily impacted by the revolt.
    • Bombay and Madras Armies remained largely loyal to the British during the revolt.
  • Key Revolt Sites & Units:
    • Nasirabad (May 28, 1857) witnessed revolt by the 15th and 30th Bengal Native Infantry.

Nature and Character of the Revolt (Views of different historians: Sepoy Mutiny vs. First War of Independence)

  • V.D. Savarkar: Termed it the 'First Indian War of Independence' (in his 1909 book 'The Indian War of Independence of 1857').
  • R.C. Majumdar: Stated it was "neither first, nor National, nor a war of Independence."
  • Dr. S.N. Sen (Official Historian): Described it as "beginning as a fight for religion and ending as the people's war."
  • Benjamin Disraeli (British MP): Declared it a 'National Revolt' in the British House of Commons.
  • Sir John Lawrence, Seeley, P. Roberts, T.R. Holmes: Characterized it as a 'Sepoy Mutiny'.
  • T.R. Holmes: Additionally called it "a conflict between civilization and barbarism."
  • Sir James Outram: Described it as "a war of fanatic religionists against Christians" or "a Mohammedan conspiracy utilizing Hindu grievances."
  • Lala Lajpat Rai (in 'Young India'): Considered it both "political and national."
  • Ashok Mehta: Called it a "planned war."
  • Azamgarh Proclamation (August 25, 1857) & Ishtahars: Stressed Hindu-Muslim unity, appealed to all sections irrespective of caste/ creed, glorified co-existence under Mughal rule, and aimed for the return of Badshahi.
  • Social Participation: Featured diverse social participation but generally lacked enthusiastic support from the modern educated elite.
  • Geographical Scope: Primarily confined to Northern and Central India.
  • Impact: Led to the end of the East India Company's rule in India (Government of India Act 1858).
  • Leadership: Nominally led by Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar.
  • Rumours and Prophecies: Played a significant role in its outbreak and spread.

Political Causes (Annexation policies, Doctrine of Lapse, subsidiary alliances)

  • Doctrine of Lapse:
    • Policy introduced by Lord Dalhousie (Governor-General, 1848-1856).
    • Stated that if an Indian ruler died without a natural male heir, his state would automatically be annexed by the British.
    • States annexed under this policy: Satara (1848), Sambalpur (1849), Udaipur (1852), Jhansi (1853), Nagpur (1854).
  • Annexation of Awadh (Oudh):
    • Annexed in 1856 by Lord Dalhousie.
    • Grounds: Alleged misgovernance by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, not Doctrine of Lapse.
    • Caused deep resentment, especially among sepoys, many of whom hailed from Awadh.
  • Abolition of Titles and Pensions:
    • Lord Dalhousie's policy to end pensions and titles of several rulers and their families.
    • Examples: Stopped pension of Nana Saheb (adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II); announced that after Bahadur Shah II, Mughal emperors would lose their royal title.
  • Subsidiary Alliance System:
    • Introduced by Lord Wellesley (Governor-General, 1798-1805).
    • Indian states had to accept a permanent British force within their territory and pay for its maintenance.
    • States also had to accept a British Resident, couldn't form alliances, or employ other Europeans without British consent.
    • Led to loss of sovereignty for Indian rulers and increased British control, causing long-term resentment.

Suppression of the Revolt by the British (Key British commanders and strategies)

  • Lord Canning: Governor-General, made Allahabad the emergency headquarters in 1857.
  • Delhi: Recaptured by British under John Nicholson (died during the siege) and Lieutenant Hudson. Hudson publicly shot Bahadur Shah Zafar II's two sons and grandson.
  • Kanpur: Recaptured by Sir Colin Campbell (Commander-in-Chief) and General Havelock.
  • Lucknow: Relieved by General Havelock and James Outram. Recaptured by Sir Colin Campbell. Henry Lawrence, Chief Commissioner of Oudh, died defending the Residency.
  • Central India (Jhansi, Gwalior, Kalpi): Suppressed by Sir Hugh Rose.
  • Jagdishpur (Bihar): William Taylor and Vincent Eyre suppressed the revolt. Eyre initially defeated Kunwar Singh.
  • Kunwar Singh's last battle: Fought against Captain Le Grand.
  • Kota: Revolutionaries crushed by Major General H.G. Roberts.

7. Other Civil Uprisings

Practice MCQs: Revolt of 1857

Background and Precursors to the Revolt of 1857

  1. Throughout the Indian war of Independence of 1857 the British in Gujarat enjoyed support from which of the following rulers in Gujarat ? i) Gaekwads of Baroda ii) Raja of Idar iii) Raja of Rajpipla iv) Jam of Nawanagar v) Thakore Saheb Lakhaji Rajsinhji-I of Rajkot

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2017

    1. i, ii and iii
    2. i, iii, iv and v
    3. i, ii, iii and iv
    4. i, ii, iii, iv and v
    Show answer

    Answer: D. i, ii, iii, iv and v

    The support or neutrality of native rulers, particularly the larger ones in regions like Gujarat, significantly contributed to the British ability to suppress the 1857 revolt. The states listed represent major ruling families/states in Gujarat during that period.

  2. Which one of the following was NOT a cause of the Revolt of 1857 ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 1 2017

    1. The rumour that the British had mixed the bone dust of cows and pigs into the flour being sold in the market
    2. The prophecy that British rule would come to an end on the centenary of the Battle of Plassey on 23rd June, 1857
    3. Popular discontent with British rule
    4. The prophecy that the end of British rule would lead to the end of the Kali Yuga and the return of Ram Rajya
    Show answer

    Answer: D. The prophecy that the end of British rule would lead to the end of the Kali Yuga and the return of Ram Rajya

    The Revolt of 1857 had multiple causes, including political grievances, economic exploitation, social and religious factors, and military issues. Rumours, prophecies, and popular discontent played a significant role in igniting and spreading the rebellion.

  3. When 1857 Revolt broke out, Governor General was:

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. Dalhousie
    2. Canning
    3. Laweience
    4. Curzon
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Canning

    Lord Canning was the Governor-General of India during the 1857 Revolt.

  4. The educated middle class in India

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1998

    1. opposed the revolt of 1857
    2. supported the revolt of 1857
    3. remained neutral to the revolt of 1857
    4. fought against native rulers
    Show answer

    Answer: C. remained neutral to the revolt of 1857

    The educated Indian middle class during the Revolt of 1857 largely did not support the rebellion. Influenced by Western education and benefiting from the administrative system under British rule, they viewed the revolt as a feudal uprising led by traditional elites. Their stance was generally one of remaining neutral, not actively participating in the revolt, and not siding with the rebels, seeing the British rule as potentially leading to modernization. While some individuals might have opposed the revolt, the prevalent historical interpretation is that the class as a whole maintained a position of detachment or neutrality.

Causes for the Failure of the Revolt

  1. Which of the following were the reasons for the failure of the Revolt of 1857? 1. The military superiority of the British 2. The rebels did not have a unified programme and ideology 3. There was a lack of support from all the sections of society Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 69th

    1. Only 1 and 2
    2. Only 2 and 3
    3. All of the above
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: C. All of the above

    - The Revolt of 1857 was a widespread but uncoordinated rebellion. - British military superiority was a critical factor in suppressing the revolt. - Lack of unity, common ideology, and leadership among rebels hampered their efforts. - Absence of widespread support from all segments of society limited the rebellion's reach and strength.

  2. According to R.C. Majumdar's statement, the Revolt of 1857 failed because

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. there was no unity of command in the armies of revolt
    2. the army of result suffered from serious financial difficult
    3. the Indian states did not support the revolt
    4. there was no cordiality between the Hindus and Muslims
    Show answer

    Answer: A. there was no unity of command in the armies of revolt

    R.C. Majumdar was a prominent historian who critically analyzed the 1857 Revolt. He argued that the revolt was not a pre-planned national uprising but rather a series of sporadic revolts with differing motives and goals. He specifically pointed out the absence of a unified political and military command structure, which hindered coordination and strategic planning across different rebel groups and regions.

  3. Consider: Statement-I (Assertion A): The First War of Independence in 1857 failed to secure freedom form the British Government. Statement-II (Reason R) : The leadership of Bahadur Shah Zafar did not have popular support most of the Indian rulers of important shied away from the struggle. Select the correct answer from the code given blow:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1994

    1. Both (A) and (R) true and (R) is correct explanation of (A).
    2. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not correct explanation of (A);
    3. (A) is true and (R) is false.
    4. (A) is false but (R) is true.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Both (A) and (R) true and (R) is correct explanation of (A).

    - Statement I (Assertion A) is true. The First War of Independence in 1857, while a significant uprising, ultimately failed to overthrow British rule and secure freedom for India at that time. The British managed to suppress the revolt by 1858. - Statement II (Reason R) is also true. Bahadur Shah Zafar, the nominal leader, lacked effective authority and widespread popular support across all segments and regions of India. Crucially, many powerful Indian rulers, such as the Nizam of Hyderabad, the Sindhia of Gwalior, the Holkar of Indore, and rulers of Punjab and Nepal, remained loyal to the British or did not participate, which severely weakened the rebellion's potential and resources. - The failure of strong, unified leadership and the lack of widespread support from key Indian rulers were indeed major factors contributing to the suppression of the revolt by the British. Therefore, (R) provides a valid explanation for why (A) is true.

Course and Spread of the Revolt

  1. Consider the following statements : The Azamgarh Proclamation refers to 1. the declaration by the rebels of 1857 2. the statement by the leader of the underground movement in the Revolt of 1942 Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2020

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 only

    The Azamgarh Proclamation was issued on August 25, 1857, by Prince Feroze Shah, a grandson of the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, from Azamgarh. It was a significant document articulating the grievances against the British and outlining the vision of the rebels for the future of India.

  2. Consider the following regarding the Revolt of 1857. 1. Indore troops had joined the Revolt against the wish of their king. 2. Mangal Pandey was executed at Meerut. 3. Tantia Tope was active both at Kanpur and Jhanshi. 4. Sindhia sought refuge from the British at Agra. Which of the following are correct?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. 1, 3 and 4
    2. 2, 3 and 4
    3. Only 3 and 4
    4. Only 1 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1, 3 and 4

    During the Revolt of 1857, princely states like Indore and Gwalior, whose rulers remained loyal to the British, saw their own troops rebel and join the uprising, sometimes against the ruler's will. Tantia Tope was a prominent leader who played a crucial role in operations at Kanpur (under Nana Saheb) and later in Bundelkhand, supporting Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi and eventually leading forces in Gwalior. The Sindhia ruler of Gwalior fled to the British refuge at Agra when his troops and the city fell to the rebels led by Tantia Tope and Rani Lakshmi Bai.

  3. Which one of the following (Place of the revolt of 1857 – Start of rebellion) is not correctly matched?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2023

    1. Lucknow – 4 June, 1857
    2. Barrack – 29 March, 1857
    3. Jhansi – 11 May, 1857
    4. Meerut – 10 May, 1857
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Jhansi – 11 May, 1857

    The major outbreak of the Revolt of 1857 began in Meerut on May 10, 1857. Rebels from Meerut reached Delhi on May 11, 1857, and captured the city. The revolt in Jhansi erupted later, in June 1857 (specifically around June 5th), where the sepoys mutinied and killed European officers, leading to Rani Lakshmibai's involvement.

  4. During the uprising of 1857, which part of India was largely unaffected?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Bengal
    2. Punjab
    3. Awadh
    4. All of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Punjab

    The major centers of the revolt were in North and Central India, including Delhi, Awadh (Lucknow), Kanpur, Jhansi, and parts of Bengal. Regions like Punjab, the princely states (except a few), and South India remained largely calm or even supported the British.

  5. The first war of Independence (1857) started from :

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1994

    1. Calcutta
    2. Delhi
    3. Jhansi
    4. Meerut
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Meerut

    On May 10, 1857, sepoys in the cantonment of Meerut mutinied against their British officers, marched to Delhi the next day, and proclaimed Bahadur Shah Zafar as the Emperor of India, setting off the widespread revolt.

  6. Which one of the following centres of the uprising of 1857 was recaptured by the English?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2015

    1. Jhansi
    2. Meerut
    3. Delhi
    4. Kanpur
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Delhi

    Delhi became the symbolic heart of the rebellion after the mutineers from Meerut arrived there and proclaimed Bahadur Shah Zafar as the Emperor of Hindustan. The British besieged Delhi and recaptured it in September 1857 after fierce fighting.

  7. The Revolt of 1857 did not acquire much intensity in

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2021

    1. Delhi
    2. Awadh
    3. Bombay
    4. The Chambal region
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Bombay

    The Revolt of 1857 was primarily concentrated in North and Central India, including regions like Delhi, Awadh, Rohilkhand, Bundelkhand, and parts of Central India (like Gwalior). The southern presidencies (Madras) and the Bombay presidency remained largely unaffected by the large-scale rebellion.

  8. When was the Azamgarh Proclamation (Manifesto of 1857 Revolutionaries) issued? (1) 25 August, 1857 (3) 11 May, 1857 (2) 10 May, 1857 (4) 5 June, 1857 (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Scholar) 2024

    1. 25 August, 1857
    2. 10 May, 1857
    3. 11 May, 1857
    4. 5 June, 1857
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 5 June, 1857

    The Azamgarh Proclamation articulated the aims and justifications of the 1857 rebellion.

Economic Causes (Land revenue policies, de-industrialisation, poverty)

  1. The Summary Settlement of 1856 was based on which one of the following assumptions?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2019

    1. The Talukdars were the rightful owners of the land.
    2. The Talukdars were interlopers with no permanent stakes in the land.
    3. The Talukdars could evict the peasants from the lands.
    4. The Talukdars would take a portion of the revenue which flowed to the State.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. The Talukdars were interlopers with no permanent stakes in the land.

    When the British annexed Awadh in 1856, they implemented a Summary Settlement with the aim of settling land revenue directly with the village proprietors, bypassing the Talukdars (large landholders). This policy was based on the assumption that the Talukdars were recent creations, often tax collectors or adventurers who had usurped their position and did not have historical rights or 'permanent stakes' in the land, unlike the village communities.

  2. The main reason for the peasants to join the 1857 Revolt was:

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. Inordinately high revenue demands
    2. The revenue policies not only uprooted the ordinary peasants but also destroyed the gentry of the country
    3. The beneficiaries of the new revenue policies were also not satisfied
    4. All of these
    Show answer

    Answer: B. The revenue policies not only uprooted the ordinary peasants but also destroyed the gentry of the country

    British land revenue policies were a primary cause of discontent leading to the 1857 Revolt. These policies, such as the Permanent Settlement, Ryotwari, and Mahalwari systems, along with their rigid implementation and high revenue demands, led to peasant indebtedness, loss of land, and increased poverty. Crucially, in many areas like Oudh, the policies also led to the summary dispossession of the traditional landed gentry (taluqdars) who were often connected to the peasantry through economic and social ties. The destruction of this traditional rural structure and the resulting widespread hardship and resentment among both peasants and gentry provided a fertile ground for rebellion and explains the broad base of peasant participation, often following their dispossessed leaders. Option B encapsulates this dual impact on the agrarian society.

Historiography of the Revolt of 1857

  1. The decided middle class in India

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. opposed the Revolt of 1857
    2. supported the Revolt of 1857
    3. fought against native rulers
    4. remained neural to the Revolt of 1857
    Show answer

    Answer: D. remained neural to the Revolt of 1857

    The educated Indian middle class, often influenced by Western thought and education, generally viewed the Revolt of 1857 as a feudal reaction against modernization and a threat to the stability and perceived progress brought by British rule. They did not support the rebels, who were primarily disgruntled sepoys and traditional rulers.

  2. Who was the prominent Indian Historian he did not accepted 1857 Revolution as a Revolution ?

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Tarachand
    2. Dr. S. N. Sen
    3. Savarkar
    4. Dr. R. C. Majumdar
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Dr. R. C. Majumdar

    R. C. Majumdar's view challenged the nationalist narrative that portrayed the 1857 uprising as India's first struggle for freedom.

  3. 'Indian nationalism in the middle of the 19th century was in Embryonic stage' was a historian with regard to the fact

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Dr. R. C. Majumdar and Dr. S. N. Sen
    2. Sir James Outram and W. Tailor
    3. T. R. Homes and L.E.R. Reas
    4. Sir John Lawrence and Seale
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Dr. R. C. Majumdar and Dr. S. N. Sen

    Historians like R. C. Majumdar and S. N. Sen critically analyzed the nature of the 1857 revolt and the state of nationalism in India during that period. R. C. Majumdar, in particular, argued that the revolt of 1857 was not a planned 'national' war of independence and that Indian nationalism was still in its nascent or 'embryonic' stage in the mid-19th century, as the participants were motivated by diverse factors rather than a unified national consciousness.

  4. Who was the Correspondent of the Newspaper 'Times' published from London in 1857 wrote that "Nobody in the North India looks at white man's car with friendly view" ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. W. H. Russel
    2. Robert Peel
    3. Gladoston
    4. Palmerston
    Show answer

    Answer: A. W. H. Russel

    William Howard Russell was a famous war correspondent for The Times newspaper of London. He covered major conflicts of the 19th century, including the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny of

  5. His vivid dispatches from India during the revolt provided British readers with detailed accounts and observations, including the sentiment of hostility towards the British ("white man") in North India. 26. Which one of the following books is the official History of Revolt of 1857 ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2009

    1. Eighteen Fifty Seven
    2. Theories of Indian Mutiny
    3. The Sepoy Mutiny and the Revolt of 1857
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Eighteen Fifty Seven

    The book 'Eighteen Fifty Seven' by Surendra Nath Sen (S.N. Sen) was commissioned by the Government of India as the official history of the Revolt of

  6. S.N. Sen, a noted historian, was appointed to write this history, and the book was published in 1957 to commemorate the centenary of the Revolt. 27. Who said, “Like summer gale revolt of Meerut was unprecedented and short-lived” ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2009

    1. S. N. Sen
    2. R. C. Majumdar
    3. S. B. Chaudhuri
    4. V. D. Savarkar
    Show answer

    Answer: B. R. C. Majumdar

    R. C. Majumdar, a prominent Indian historian, wrote extensively on the Revolt of 1857. He was critical of the revolt's lack of national character or unified planning and often described its sudden eruption and swift suppression in certain areas, using analogies like a "summer gale" to describe its unexpected but short-lived force, especially regarding the Meerut uprising.

  7. Which Historian popularized the view that the revolt of 1857 was "conflict between civilization and barbarism"? - (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Officer) 2024

    1. L.E.R. Rees
    2. Sir James Outram
    3. T.R. Holmes
    4. Sir John Seeley
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Sir John Seeley

    Sir John Seeley described the revolt of 1857 as a "conflict between civilization and barbarism."

  8. The book "From Sepoy to Subedar", which is a contemporary source of the Revolt of 1857, written by -

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Scholar) 2024

    1. Sitaram Pandey
    2. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan
    3. Mangal Pandey
    4. Durgadas Bandyopadhyay
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Sitaram Pandey

    "From Sepoy to Subedar" is a primary source for the Revolt of 1857. It is the autobiography of Sitaram Pandey. The book details the experiences of an Indian soldier in the British Army.

Immediate Cause: The Greased Cartridge Incident

  1. In which division of the British Indian Army, Mangal Pandey was inducted as a soldier?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. 34th Bengal Native Infantry
    2. 5th Royal Gurkha Rifles
    3. Madras Light Cavalry
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 34th Bengal Native Infantry

    His actions on March 29, 1857, against British officers at Barrackpore are widely considered a key event that triggered the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence.

  2. Which of the following statements about the first act of the Revolt of 1857 is/are true ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 1 2016

    1. 2 only
    2. 1, 2 and 3 only
    3. 4 only
    4. 1 and 4 only
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 4 only

    It occurred in Meerut when two sepoys stole a superior officer's rifle. It began when the Rani of Jhansi declared war on the British. It began when Mangal Pandey fired at a European officer in Meerut. It began when Mangal Pandey fired at a European officer in Barrackpore. Select the correct answer using the code given below : Statement 1 is incorrect. While the Meerut mutiny of May 10, 1857, was triggered by the greased cartridges issue and the imprisonment of sepoys, the description of two sepoys stealing a rifle is not accurate as the "first act" of the revolt. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Rani of Jhansi, Lakshmibai, joined the revolt much later in response to events in her state, not as the initiator of the entire revolt. Statement 3 is incorrect. Mangal Pandey did fire at European officers, but this incident occurred at Barrackpore, not Meerut. Statement 4 is correct. Mangal Pandey, a sepoy in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry at Barrackpore, mutinied on March 29, 1857, firing at his Sergeant-Major and Adjutant. This act of open rebellion by an individual sepoy against his superiors is widely considered the initial spark or the "first act" of defiance that foreshadowed the larger revolt.

  3. With which Uprising is Mangal Pandey associated?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2010

    1. Barrackpur
    2. Meerut
    3. Delhi
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Barrackpur

    Mangal Pandey was a sepoy in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry regiment of the British East India Company who mutinied at Barrackpore in March 1857, an event considered one of the initial sparks of the Indian Mutiny of 1857.

  4. What was the first trigger for the Revolt of 1857 ?

    Asked in: APPSC Panchayat secretary Prelims 2016

    1. Discontent of soldiers
    2. Policy of Lapse
    3. Annexation of Avadh
    4. Civilian discontent
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Discontent of soldiers

    The discontent among the soldiers was a major underlying cause, stemming from issues like service conditions, pay, religious beliefs, and feelings of racial superiority displayed by British officers. The greased cartridges were the spark that directly led to the mutiny at Barrackpore and Meerut, initiating the wider revolt.

  5. Mangal Pandey was a sepoy of which regiment ?

    Asked in: Co operative Supervisor & Environment Supervisor (Group C) Exam 2023

    1. Royal Gorkha Rifle
    2. 34th Bengal Native Infantry
    3. Sikh Regiment
    4. None of these
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 34th Bengal Native Infantry

    Mangal Pandey's actions are widely considered a catalyst for the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

Impact and Consequences of the Revolt (Government of India Act 1858, Queen's Proclamation, military reorganisation)

  1. When did the British Government take over the reign of India from the East India Company and who was the first Viceroy?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2014

    1. 1857, Lord Linlithgow
    2. 1858, Lord Canning
    3. 1861, Lord Curzon
    4. 1858, Lord Curzon
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1858, Lord Canning

    - Transfer of power from East India Company to British Crown: 1858. - First Viceroy of India: Lord Canning. - The transfer was a direct consequence of the 1857 uprising.

  2. Who among the following died in exile ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2019

    1. Rani Laxmibai
    2. Bahadur Shah Zafar
    3. Tantia Tope
    4. Nana Saheb
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Bahadur Shah Zafar

    Following the Indian Mutiny of 1857, he was captured by the British, tried, and exiled to Rangoon (present-day Yangon) in British Burma. He died there in 1862.

  3. What was the date of "Queens' proclamation"?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. 1st November, 1858
    2. 10th May, 1857
    3. 29th March, 1857
    4. 11th February, 1860
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1st November, 1858

    The Queen's Proclamation, formally known as the Proclamation issued by Her Majesty in Council to the Princes, Chiefs and People of India, was announced by Lord Canning in Allahabad on November 1, 1858. This proclamation followed the Indian Mutiny of 1857 and marked the transfer of governance of India from the East India Company to the British Crown.

  4. Queen Victoria's Proclamation was read out by Lord Canning on Is' November, 1858 at

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2009

    1. Allahabad
    2. Calcutta
    3. Bombay
    4. Madras
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Allahabad

    The Proclamation of 1858 marked a significant turning point in Indian history, ending Company rule and initiating direct rule by the British government.

  5. The administrative consequence of the Revolt of 1857 was the transfer of power from

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2021

    1. East India Company to the British Crown.
    2. British Crown to the East India Company.
    3. East India Company to the Governor General.
    4. British Crown to the Board of Directors.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. East India Company to the British Crown.

    The Government of India Act 1858 was passed by the British Parliament following the Revolt of 1857. This Act abolished the rule of the British East India Company and transferred the direct administration of India to the British Crown. The Governor-General of India was redesignated as the Viceroy of India, acting as the representative of the Crown.

  6. In which year the Queen's Proclamation was issued?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2023

    1. 1855
    2. 1859
    3. 1800
    4. 1858
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1858

    The Queen's Proclamation of 1858 transferred the governance of India from the British East India Company directly to the British Crown.

  7. The transfer of the company's Government to British Crown was done on

    Asked in: Civil Judge (Junior Division) Exam 2008

    1. 1st October, 1857
    2. 1st October, 1858
    3. 1st October, 1859
    4. 1st October, 1860
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1st October, 1858

    The administration of India was transferred from the East India Company to the British Crown on October 1, 1858, following the Indian Mutiny of 1857.

  8. What were the main points of Queen Victoria's proclamation of November 1, 1858? (1) No desire to expand the empire (2) Religious tolerance (3) Complete independence to native rulers and nawabs (4) No pardon to rebels Select the correct answer from the code given below.

    Asked in: lower devision clerk 2025

    1. (1) and (2) are correct
    2. (2) and (4) are correct
    3. (3) and (1) are correct
    4. (4) and (3) are correct
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (1) and (2) are correct

    Queen Victoria's proclamation of November 1, 1858, marked the transfer of power from the British East India Company to the British Crown after the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Statement (1) is correct: The proclamation stated that Britain had "no desire to make any further conquests" and would not seek to expand its territory in India. Statement (2) is correct: It assured religious tolerance and stated that "all our subjects, of whatever race or creed, will be freely and impartially admitted to offices, the duties of which they may be qualified to perform." Statement (3) is incorrect: Instead of complete independence, the proclamation aimed to bring native rulers under the direct authority and suzerainty of the British Crown. Treaties were to be respected, but the underlying principle was British paramountcy. Statement (4) is incorrect: While the proclamation did not explicitly mention pardons for rebels, it did not preclude the possibility of leniency for those who surrendered. However, the overall context was about establishing order and not necessarily offering blanket amnesty.

Key Centres and Leaders of the Revolt (Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, Arrah, Faizabad, Bareilly)

  1. Bahadur Shah was the

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. last ruler of the Lodi dynasty
    2. successor of Sher Shah Suri
    3. last Mughal emperor
    4. successor of the Maratha ruler Shivaji
    Show answer

    Answer: C. last Mughal emperor

    Bahadur Shah II was the nominal head of the Indian Mutiny of 1857. After the suppression of the revolt by the British, he was deposed, tried, and exiled to Rangoon (Burma), marking the end of the Mughal dynasty.

  2. Who was popularly known as 'Nana Saheb'?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2006

    1. Baji Rao I
    2. Balaji Baji Rao
    3. Balaji Viswanath
    4. Sawai Madhav Rao
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Balaji Baji Rao

    Nana Saheb's tenure as Peshwa saw the Maratha Empire reach its territorial zenith, though it also included the disastrous Third Battle of Panipat in 1761.

  3. After 1857 revolt, Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal ruler of India, was exiled to

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2018

    1. Bangkok
    2. Rangoon
    3. Colombo
    4. Kathmandu
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Rangoon

    After the suppression of the Indian Mutiny of 1857, Bahadur Shah Zafar II, the last Mughal emperor, was tried for treason by the British authorities. He was found guilty and exiled to Rangoon (now Yangon) in Burma (now Myanmar) in 1858, where he died in 1862.

  4. Who was the leader of revolutionaries in Bihar during the Revolt of 1857 ?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 60 62rd

    1. Namdar Khan
    2. Babu Kunwar Singh
    3. Birsa Munda
    4. Shankar Shah
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Babu Kunwar Singh

    Kunwar Singh, a member of the Ujjainiya Rajput clan, despite his old age, led the revolt against the British in Bihar with great courage and strategic skill. He fought several battles and became a symbol of resistance in the region.

  5. About Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, it was said that his empire extended from

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 64th

    1. Chandni Chowk to Palam
    2. Delhi to Bihar
    3. Peshawar to Bihar
    4. Peshawar to Varanasi
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Chandni Chowk to Palam

    This phrase highlights the symbolic nature of the Mughal Emperor's authority by the mid-19th century, contrasting it with the historical expanse of the empire.

  6. Where did Kunwar Singh join the rebellion of 1857 against the British?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 64th

    1. Arrah
    2. Patna
    3. Bettiah
    4. Varanasi
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Arrah

    - Kunwar Singh, at nearly eighty years old, was a prominent military leader who fought against the British in Bihar during the 1857 revolt. - He led a contingent of rebellious sepoys and his own men, engaging in several battles in the Shahabad district and even venturing into other parts of India.

  7. Who led the 1857 Revolt in Bihar?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 65th

    1. Babu Amar Singh
    2. Hare Krishna Singh
    3. Kunwar Singh
    4. Raja Shahzada Singh
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Kunwar Singh

    Kunwar Singh, despite his old age, played a prominent role in the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857-58 in Bihar, leading forces against the British in several battles.

  8. Where was Jhansi Ki Rani Laxmibai died?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 67th Re Exam

    1. Kanpur
    2. Gwalior
    3. Jhansi
    4. Lucknow
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Gwalior

    - Rani Laxmibai was a key leader of the 1857 revolt in the Bundelkhand region. - After losing Jhansi to the British, she joined Tantia Tope and Rao Sahib Scindia (nephew of the Gwalior Maharaja), capturing Gwalior. - The British forces, led by Sir Hugh Rose, attacked Gwalior, and Rani Laxmibai was killed in battle near the city on June 17, 1858.

Military Causes (Discrimination, General Service Enlistment Act)

  1. Which of the following was not a reason for making the sepoys of the East India Company rebellious?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 64th

    1. The efforts of the officers of the Company to spread Christianity
    2. The order to the sepoys to travel on ships
    3. The stoppage of Bhatta
    4. The inefficiency of the officers
    Show answer

    Answer: D. The inefficiency of the officers

    Major causes of the rebellion included religious interference (like the greased cartridges issue and missionary activities), compulsory overseas service (violating caste rules), and economic grievances like the stoppage of allowances (Bhatta).

  2. During 1857 revolt which army remained loyal to the British?

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Bombay Army
    2. Bengal Army
    3. Madras Army
    4. Avadh Army
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Bombay Army

    - The Revolt of 1857 primarily involved sepoys of the Bengal Army of the British East India Company. - The Bengal Army was large, recruited heavily from areas like Awadh and Bihar, and had service conditions that led to discontent. - The Madras Army and the Bombay Army, the other two presidency armies, largely remained loyal throughout the revolt. Their different recruitment patterns and service conditions contributed to their allegiance. - Soldiers from the loyal Bombay and Madras armies were later used by the British to help suppress the rebellion in the Bengal Presidency.

  3. Before the Meerut Revolt (1857), in which of the following Military Battalions rebellion took place? (i) 19th Native Infantry of Burhanpur (ii) 47th Regiment of Barrackpore (iii) 34th Native Infantry of Bengal (iv) 7th Oudh Regiment Select the correct answer - A) (i), (iii) and (iv) B) (ii) and (iv) C) (ii) and (iii) D) (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Assistant Archivist) 2024

    1. (i), (iii) and (iv)
    2. (ii) and (iv)
    3. (ii) and (iii)
    4. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. (ii) and (iii)

    Before the main outbreak of the Meerut Revolt in May 1857, there were instances of mutiny and rebellion in some military battalions. Specifically, the 34th Native Infantry of Bengal at Barrackpore had an incident where Sepoy Mangal Pandey refused to use greased cartridges and attacked British officers (March 1857). Also, the 47th Regiment of Barrackpore also showed signs of discontent and mutiny. The 19th Native Infantry of Berhampur (not Burhanpur) had also mutinied in January 1857. The 7th Oudh Regiment also revolted. However, the question asks for rebellions before the Meerut Revolt. While the 34th Native Infantry's incident was a precursor, the question might be referring to more organized acts of rebellion. The 47th Regiment at Barrackpore was disbanded following a mutiny in November 1857, which was after the Meerut outbreak. Historical accounts indicate that the 34th Native Infantry at Barrackpore was indeed involved in a significant mutinous act prior to Meerut. The 7th Oudh Regiment also revolted. Let's re-examine the options based on commonly accepted precursors. The 19th Native Infantry at Berhampur mutinied in February 1857. The 34th Native Infantry at Barrackpore was disbanded in May 1857 after Mangal Pandey's actions. The 47th Native Infantry at Barrackpore also mutinied. The 7th Oudh Regiment revolted in July 1857. Considering events leading up to Meerut (May 10, 1857), the most prominent instances are the 19th Native Infantry of Berhampur and the 34th Native Infantry of Bengal. The question asks for military battalions rebellion. The 34th Native Infantry's actions were a direct refusal and attack. The 47th Regiment of Barrackpore also saw mutiny. So, (ii) and (iii) appear to be correct.

  4. Which military contingent was not deployed at Nasirabad during the 1857 revolt ? - Question not attempted

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher (Sec. Edu.) Comp. Exam 2024 group b 2024

    1. 15th Bengal Native Infantry
    2. 30th Bengal Native Infantry
    3. 1st Bombay Cavalry
    4. 72nd Bengal Native Infantry
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 15th Bengal Native Infantry

    Nasirabad was a significant cantonment where the revolt of 1857 began in Rajputana. The mutiny at Nasirabad occurred on May 28, 1857.

Nature and Character of the Revolt (Views of different historians: Sepoy Mutiny vs. First War of Independence)

  1. The Uprising of 1857 was described as the 'First Indian War of Independence' by

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 67th Cancelled

    1. V. D. Savarkar
    2. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    3. R. C. Majumdar
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: A. V. D. Savarkar

    Savarkar's interpretation challenged the British view of the uprising as merely a 'Sepoy Mutiny' and presented it as a conscious and united effort by Indians to overthrow foreign rule.

  2. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the nature of the event of 1857? 1. Ashok Mehata had called it a planned war. 2. V D Savarkar calls it a war of Independence. 3. P Roberts calls it a Sepoy Mutiny. 4. Dr S N Sen says that it began as a fight for religion and ended as the people's war.

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2019

    1. 1, 2 and 3 only
    2. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    3. 1 and 2 only
    4. 1, 2 and 4 only
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1, 2, 3 and 4

    - Statement 1 is correct. Ashok Mehta, in his book 'The Great Rebellion', argued that the 1857 revolt was a national revolt, implying a level of planning and organization against British rule, which can be interpreted as a "planned war" by some. - Statement 2 is correct. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, in his influential book 'The Indian War of Independence 1857', was one of the first to portray the event not merely as a mutiny but as the first organized war of independence by Indians against British rule. - Statement 3 is correct. Many contemporary British historians and officials, such as P. Roberts, dismissed the event as primarily a 'Sepoy Mutiny' driven by the grievances of Indian soldiers, downplaying its wider civilian participation and political aspirations. This represents a specific interpretation. - Statement 4 is correct. Dr. S.N. Sen, in his official history 'Eighteen Fifty-Seven', observed the evolving nature of the revolt, stating that it began due to religious grievances of the sepoys but later transformed into a wider uprising involving different sections of the population, effectively becoming a people's war or a war for independence (as per his full quote often cited). The phrase "ended as the people's war" captures this transformation.

  3. Given below are two statements: Statement I : "The 1857 Revolt was a war of fanatic religionists against Christians” — Statement by Sir James Outram. Statement II : "The so called First National War of Independence of 1857- is neither first, nor National, nor a war of Independence.” — Statement by R.C. Majumdar. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2023

    1. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
    2. Both Statement I and Statement II are incor‐ rect
    3. Statement I is correct and Statement II is in‐ correct
    4. Statement I is incorrect and Statement II is correct
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct

    - British officials and historians had varied interpretations of the revolt, often emphasizing religious fanaticism, sepoy grievances, or conspiracies. - Indian historians also hold diverse views, ranging from calling it the "First War of Independence" (like V.D. Savarkar) to more critical assessments questioning its unity, national character, and goals (like R.C. Majumdar). - These quotes represent specific historical interpretations.

  4. Consider the following statements: (1) In 1910, at Allahabad Session of Indian National Congress was “Jana-Gana- Mana” sung for the first time. (2) Swami Dayanand Saraswati had hoisted the ‘Pakhand Khandini Pataka’ at Allahabad in 1867 A.D. (3) The last Act was the Charter Act of 1853 for the East India Company. (4) The modern educated Indians also did not support the Revolt of 1857. Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2024

    1. (1) and (2) only
    2. (3) and (4) only
    3. (2) and (3) only
    4. (1) and (4) only
    Show answer

    Answer: B. (3) and (4) only

    Understanding key events and figures in Indian history, including the first singing of the national anthem, the activities of reformers like Dayanand Saraswati, the sequence of British Charter Acts, and the nature of support for the 1857 revolt.

  5. Which of the following aspects of the revolt of 1857 is not correct ?

    Asked in: HAS Prelims 2019

    1. It had a diverse social participation
    2. It was enthusiastically supported by the educated elite everywhere
    3. It was great symbol of communal unity
    4. It was limited only to northern India
    Show answer

    Answer: B. It was enthusiastically supported by the educated elite everywhere

    The support for the Revolt of 1857 varied across different sections of society and geographical regions of India.

  6. Who called the "1857 Uprising" "A War of Independence"?

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2012

    1. Prof. N. R. Pathak
    2. P. E. Roberts
    3. Dr. R. C. Mujumdar
    4. V. D. Savarkar
    Show answer

    Answer: D. V. D. Savarkar

    - Savarkar's interpretation challenged the British narrative of the event being solely a Sepoy Mutiny. - His book highlighted the elements of Indian unity and aspiration for freedom in the revolt.

  7. The following leading British Parliamentarian and Politician admitted that the Revolt of 1857 was a National Revolt and not a Military Mutiny :

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2013

    1. Lord Dalhousie
    2. Lord Canning
    3. William Gladstone
    4. Benjamin Disraeli
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Benjamin Disraeli

    In a debate in the British Parliament, Benjamin Disraeli, who was then a prominent figure in the Conservative opposition, famously challenged the official British government's view that the 1857 events were merely a military mutiny. He argued that it was a more widespread rebellion with popular support, effectively terming it a "National Revolt".

  8. The Azamgarh Proclamation of August 25, 1857 stressed on which one of the following issues ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 1 2019

    1. Hindu-Muslim divide
    2. Support to the English Government
    3. The return of the Badshahi
    4. The imposition of heavy Dumas (revenue de‐ mand)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. The return of the Badshahi

    The Azamgarh Proclamation of August 25, 1857, issued during the Indian Mutiny, was a comprehensive document outlining the grievances against British rule and promising a return to a just and prosperous rule under the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar (referred to as Badshahi). It appealed to various sections of society by promising specific benefits upon the restoration of the old order.

Political Causes (Annexation policies, Doctrine of Lapse, subsidiary alliances)

  1. Who was remembered for the Doctrine of Lapse policy which many hold directly responsible for the Indian Revolt of 1857?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2023

    1. Lord Dalhousie
    2. Lord Canning
    3. Lord Wellesley
    4. Lord Lytton
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Dalhousie

    The application of the Doctrine of Lapse led to the annexation of several states like Satara, Sambalpur, Udaipur, Nagpur, and Jhansi. Along with the annexation of Awadh on the pretext of misgovernance (also during Dalhousie's tenure), these actions caused widespread resentment among Indian rulers and the populace, significantly contributing to the outbreak of the Revolt of 1857.

  2. Certain measures of Dalhousie created serious discontent in India, which were also responsible for the revolt of 1857. Which of the following measures was *not* one of them ?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2011

    1. Doctrine of Lapse
    2. Introduction of Railways and Telegraph
    3. Abolition of titles and pensions of several rulers
    4. Educational reforms
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Introduction of Railways and Telegraph

    While the introduction of Railways and Telegraph lines by Dalhousie was a significant modernization effort that served British strategic and economic interests and caused some social disruption, it was not a primary cause of the widespread discontent among Indian rulers, soldiers, and the populace that directly led to the Revolt of 1857 in the same way as the Doctrine of Lapse, abolition of titles and pensions, and perceived interference through educational reforms.

  3. Q16: In which year the province of Avadh was annexed to the British empire?

    Asked in: Asstt. Jailor 2013

    1. 1852
    2. 1854
    3. 1855
    4. 1856
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1856

    The province of Avadh was annexed to the British empire in 1856.

Suppression of the Revolt by the British (Key British commanders and strategies)

  1. Who had made Allahabad the emergency headquarters in 1857?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2005

    1. Lord Canning
    2. Lord Cornwallis
    3. Lord Wellesley
    4. Lord William Bentinck
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lord Canning

    During the Sepoy Mutiny/Revolt of 1857, Lord Canning was the Governor-General of India. As the rebellion spread, especially in North India, he shifted his emergency headquarters from Calcutta to Allahabad to be closer to the affected areas and better coordinate responses.

  2. Which of the following British Officer who publicly shot the two sons and grandson of Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar II, while recapturing Delhi? (1) General Hugh Wheeler (3) Lieutenant Hudson (2) Henry Lawrence (4) John Nicholson (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Officer) 2024

    1. General Hugh Wheeler
    2. Henry Lawrence
    3. Lieutenant Hudson
    4. John Nicholson
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Lieutenant Hudson

    The execution of the Mughal princes by Lieutenant Hudson was a brutal act that symbolized the end of the Mughal dynasty and was a significant event during the Indian Mutiny of 1857.

  3. Which British Officer crushed the revolutionaries in Kota in 1857? - (5) Question not attempted

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Research Scholar) 2024

    1. (1) Major General H.G. Roberts
    2. (2) Lieutenant Heathcote
    3. (3) Brigadier Holmes
    4. (4) Colonel Abbott
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (1) Major General H.G. Roberts

    This question relates to the Indian Revolt of 1857, specifically focusing on the events and the British military leadership involved in suppressing the uprising in the princely state of Kota.

  4. Who among the following British officials had criticized British Government for hanging Tantya Tope ?

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher Gr II (Sec. Edu.) Comp. Exam 2022

    1. James Outram
    2. Col. Homes
    3. I.T. Prichard
    4. Cap. C.L. Showers
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Cap. C.L. Showers

    (G.K. Group B)-2022 Tantya Tope was a key leader of the Indian Mutiny of 1857. His capture and execution were significant events. Critiques of the British actions by their own officials highlight the controversial nature of the suppression of the revolt.