Which group in India would have been least likely to participate in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against the British?(1 point)
The group in India that would have been least likely to participate in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against the British would be the princely states and upper-caste elites who were aligned with the British and benefited from their rule.
The group in India that would have been least likely to participate in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against the British would have been the British East India Company officials and their supporters, as they were loyal to the British and had a vested interest in maintaining British rule in India.
To determine which group in India would have been least likely to participate in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against the British, we need to consider various factors such as social, political, and economic conditions during that time.
The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Independence, was a significant uprising against British colonial rule in India. It involved diverse groups of people who shared grievances against British rule. However, there were some groups that were relatively less likely to participate in the rebellion compared to others.
1. Zamindars (Landowners): Zamindars were the feudal landowners who held significant power and privileges under the British rule. They were generally content with their position and had a vested interest in maintaining their landholdings. Zamindars often collaborated with the British authorities and were less likely to support any rebellion that could jeopardize their economic and social status.
2. Indian Princes and Royalty: Many Indian princely states existed during this period, ruled by local kings and princes. These rulers had entered into treaties with the British East India Company, which granted them a degree of autonomy. In exchange, they had to acknowledge British suzerainty and help maintain British control. The Indian princes and royalty were often loyal to the British and hesitant to support a rebellion that could lead to the loss of their privileges and autonomy.
3. Educated elites and urban middle class: The educated elites, which included professionals, lawyers, merchants, and the urban middle class, had started emerging in India during this time. They had benefitted from British reforms and had gained access to a Western education system. Many of them saw the British administration as a means of career and personal advancement. Unlike the rural masses who faced direct exploitation and oppression, the educated elites were less likely to actively participate in the rebellion, as they had more to lose economically and socially.
It is essential to note that while these groups might have been less likely to join the rebellion, support or elements of dissent could still exist within them. It is also crucial to recognize that the rebellion had widespread support and participation across different sections of society in India.
To gain a better understanding of the historical context and specifics related to the Indian Rebellion of 1857, it is recommended to explore books, articles, and other historical sources that delve into this period of India's history.