Mutiny and revolution of Indian soldiers under the command of British officers in 1857.
The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, was a major uprising in India against British colonial rule. The rebellion was triggered by various factors, including resentment towards British policies, economic exploitation, and religious and social issues.
The revolt began with a mutiny of Indian soldiers, known as sepoys, in the British East India Company's army in May 1857. The sepoys, who made up the majority of the army's troops, were angered by rumors that the cartridges for their rifles were greased with animal fat, either from cows (sacred to Hindus) or pigs (taboo for Muslims). This was seen as an insult to their religious beliefs, sparking widespread anger and discontent among the soldiers.
The mutiny quickly spread throughout northern India, with Indian soldiers and civilians joining forces to challenge British authority. Cities such as Delhi, Lucknow, and Kanpur became key battlegrounds, as rebel forces fought against British troops and supporters of the colonial government.
The rebellion was marked by brutal violence on both sides, with atrocities committed by both Indian rebels and British forces. The British eventually regained control of the situation, with reinforcements arriving from Britain and other colonies to help suppress the rebellion. The city of Delhi was recaptured in September 1857, and the rebellion was officially declared over by the British in July 1858.
The consequences of the Indian Rebellion were far-reaching. The British government ended the era of the British East India Company's rule and established direct control over India as a colony. The rebellion also had a lasting impact on British attitudes towards their colonial subjects, leading to increased distrust and repression of Indian aspirations for self-rule.
Overall, the Indian Rebellion of 1857 was a significant moment in India's struggle for independence, and it remains a potent symbol of resistance against colonialism and oppression.