All questions of The Revolt of 1857 for UPSC CSE Exam

A and b will be Answer

Answer: A. Rani LakshmibaiRani Lakshmibai, the Queen of Jhansi, is known to have said, "Without own hands we shall not our Azadshahi (independent rule) bury." This quote highlights her determination and courage to fight against the British forces during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Explanation:- Rani Lakshmibai was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence.- She led the revolt against British rule in the state of Jhansi, which was annexed by the British East India Company under the Doctrine of Lapse.- The quote showcases her strong belief in self-reliance and the importance of active participation in the struggle for independence.- Rani Lakshmibai's fierce resistance against the British forces earned her a legendary status as a symbol of resistance to British rule in India.

No

A

The Sepoy Mutiny, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857, was a significant event in Indian history. However, the question states that a sepoy mutiny had broken out in Bengal much earlier. Let's explore this in detail.

The correct answer to the question is option 'B,' which states that the sepoy mutiny had broken out in Bengal in 1764. Here's why:

1. Background: Before we delve into the events of 1764, it's essential to understand the context leading up to it. The British East India Company had established its presence in India since the early 1600s. By the mid-1700s, they had gained significant control over various parts of India, including Bengal, through a combination of diplomacy, trade, and military conquest.

2. Bengal Army: The East India Company recruited Indian soldiers, known as sepoys, to serve in its army. The Bengal Army was the largest and most crucial component of the Company's military establishment. However, the sepoys were treated poorly, with low pay, long hours, and discriminatory practices.

3. The Mutiny: In 1764, the Bengal Army was engaged in a war against the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daula. However, the East India Company had made an alliance with Mir Jafar, one of Siraj-ud-Daula's generals, to overthrow him. When the sepoys discovered this, they were outraged, as Siraj-ud-Daula was their legitimate ruler. They began to mutiny and refused to fight for the British.

4. Consequences: The mutiny was eventually suppressed by the British, but it had significant consequences. The East India Company realized that it could not rely entirely on Indian soldiers and began to recruit more British soldiers. It also introduced various reforms to improve the conditions of the sepoys, such as higher pay and better treatment.

In conclusion, the sepoy mutiny did indeed break out in Bengal in 1764. While it may not have been as significant as the rebellion of 1857, it was a crucial event in Indian history that highlighted the tensions between the Indian soldiers and their British masters.

B

Historical Context
The inclusion of Indians in the Governor-General's Executive Council marked a significant moment in colonial history. The British administration in India was largely dominated by British officials, but gradual political changes led to increased Indian representation.
S.P. Sinha's Appointment
- Who was S.P. Sinha?
Satyendra Prasad Sinha, popularly known as S.P. Sinha, was a prominent Indian politician and lawyer. His contributions lay in advocating for Indian representation in governance.
- Significance of His Appointment:
In 1919, S.P. Sinha became the first Indian to be appointed to the Governor-General’s Executive Council under the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms. This was a crucial step in recognizing the role of Indians in the administrative framework of British India.
Impact on Indian Politics
- Paving the Way for Future Leaders:
Sinha's inclusion set a precedent that encouraged other Indian leaders to strive for positions of power within the British administration.
- Catalyst for Political Change:
His appointment symbolized the beginning of a shift towards a more inclusive governance model, which would eventually lead to the demand for greater self-governance and independence.
Conclusion
S.P. Sinha’s appointment as the first Indian in the Governor-General’s Executive Council was a landmark achievement in Indian political history, representing the aspirations of Indian leaders for participation in governance and laying the groundwork for future political advancements.

Khan Bahadur Khan Rohillahilkhand

Explanation:

Rani Lakshmibai:
Rani Lakshmibai, also known as the Rani of Jhansi, was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against British colonial rule. She was a warrior queen and played an active role in the uprising. However, there is no evidence or historical record suggesting that Azimullah was a loyal follower of Rani Lakshmibai.

Nana Sahib:
Nana Sahib, born as Dhondu Pant, was one of the prominent leaders of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He played a crucial role in the revolt and was considered a symbol of resistance against the British Raj. Nana Sahib was known for his political acumen and military leadership. It is unlikely that Azimullah was a loyal follower of Nana Sahib because there is no historical evidence supporting this claim.

Kunwar Singh:
Kunwar Singh, also known as Veer Kunwar Singh, was a notable freedom fighter from Bihar. He actively participated in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and led a rebellion against the British forces. While Kunwar Singh was a respected leader, there is no mention of Azimullah being his loyal follower in historical records.

Bahadur Shah II:
Bahadur Shah II, also known as Zafar, was the last Mughal emperor of India. He was a figurehead during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and was widely seen as a symbol of the uprising. Azimullah, being an expert political propagandist, was likely to support and be a loyal follower of Bahadur Shah II, as he would have recognized the symbolic power and influence the emperor held over the masses.

Conclusion:
Based on historical records and the roles of various leaders during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, it can be concluded that Azimullah was a loyal follower of Bahadur Shah II. The emperor's position as a figurehead and symbol of the uprising would have made him an attractive leader for a political propagandist like Azimullah. However, there is no evidence to suggest that Azimullah was a loyal follower of Rani Lakshmibai, Nana Sahib, or Kunwar Singh.

Zeenat Mahal has been accused by some historians of carrying on intrigues with the British during the Revolt of 1857.

The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857 or the First War of Independence, was a major uprising against British rule in India. It began in Meerut on May 10, 1857, and quickly spread to other parts of the country. The revolt was a result of various grievances, including political, economic, social, and religious factors.

During the revolt, several leaders emerged who played significant roles in organizing and leading the rebellion against British rule. One of these leaders was Zeenat Mahal, who was the wife of the last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah II.

Zeenat Mahal, also known as Begum Zeenat Mahal, was accused by some historians of secretly communicating and collaborating with the British during the revolt. It is believed that she was in contact with British officials and provided them with information about the rebel activities and plans.

However, it is important to note that these accusations are controversial and not universally accepted by all historians. Some argue that Zeenat Mahal was merely trying to protect her family and ensure their safety in a tumultuous time. Others believe that she may have been coerced or manipulated by the British.

Regardless of the truth behind these accusations, Zeenat Mahal's role during the revolt remains a subject of debate among historians. The complexities of her position as the wife of the Mughal Emperor and the political circumstances of the time make it difficult to ascertain her true motivations and actions.

In conclusion, Zeenat Mahal has been accused by some historians of carrying on intrigues with the British during the Revolt of 1857. However, the veracity of these accusations is a matter of historical debate and interpretation.

Religious Disabilities Act of 1850

The Religious Disabilities Act of 1850 was a significant legislation introduced by the British government in India during the colonial period. The act abolished all laws affecting the rights of persons converting to another religion or caste. Let's discuss the act in detail:

Background

Before the enactment of the Religious Disabilities Act, there were various laws that affected the rights of people converting to another religion or caste. For instance, the Hindu law did not recognize the conversion of a Hindu to another religion. It declared that a person who renounced Hinduism lost his or her rights to ancestral property. Similarly, the Muslim law did not permit a Muslim to convert to another religion. The converted person was considered an apostate and was liable to be punished.

Provisions of the Act

The Religious Disabilities Act, 1850, was introduced to remove these discriminatory laws. The main provisions of the act were as follows:

- The act declared that no person shall be disqualified from holding any office or employment under the government, or from being an executor, trustee, or legatee, on account of religion.
- It abolished all laws and customs which prevented any person from inheriting property or succeeding to any title, office, or employment on the ground of religion.
- The act also declared that any person who converts to another religion shall not forfeit any property, rights, or privileges that he or she had before the conversion.
- The act further declared that any marriage contracted between persons of different religions shall be valid in law.

Significance of the Act

The Religious Disabilities Act, 1850, was a significant legislation that abolished discriminatory laws affecting the rights of persons converting to another religion or caste. The act paved the way for religious freedom and equality in India. It recognized the rights of individuals to choose their religion and to practice it freely. The act was a major step towards the secularization of the Indian society and paved the way for other reforms like the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act and the Abolition of Sati Act.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Religious Disabilities Act, 1850, was a landmark legislation that abolished all laws affecting the rights of persons converting to another religion or caste. The act was a major step towards religious freedom and equality in India. It recognized the rights of individuals to choose their religion and to practice it freely. The act paved the way for the secularization of Indian society and was a major milestone in the history of Indian reforms.

Background:

The law enabling a convert to Christianity to inherit his ancestral property was enacted in 1850 in India. This law caused a stir among many Indians, particularly those with strong religious sentiments.

Reason for Hurt Sentiments:

1. Religious Beliefs: Many Indians held strong religious beliefs and traditions regarding inheritance and property rights. The idea of a convert to Christianity being able to inherit ancestral property went against these beliefs.

2. Cultural Norms: In Indian society, inheritance rules were often deeply rooted in cultural norms and traditions. The new law disrupted these norms and caused discomfort among those who valued tradition.

3. Perception of Conversion: The provision allowing converts to Christianity to inherit property may have been seen as incentivizing conversion, which could have been viewed as a threat to the dominant religion and culture.

Impact on Society:

1. Protests: The enactment of this law led to protests from various religious groups and individuals who felt that it undermined their beliefs and traditions.

2. Social Unrest: The discontent caused by the law could have contributed to social unrest and tensions within communities that held differing beliefs.

3. Legal Challenges: The law may have faced legal challenges from groups or individuals who believed it was unconstitutional or discriminatory.

In conclusion, the law enacted in 1850 allowing converts to Christianity to inherit ancestral property in India stirred religious sentiments and caused unrest among those who held traditional beliefs and values. It highlighted the complex interplay between religious beliefs, cultural norms, and legal provisions in a diverse and multicultural society like India.

Weakness in the Chain of Leadership in the Revolt of 1857

Introduction:
The Revolt of 1857 was a significant event in the history of India, which marked the beginning of the end of British rule. The rebellion was led by a group of Indian leaders who fought against the British East India Company's exploitative policies. However, the chain of leadership during the revolt was not strong enough, and there were some weak links that affected the outcome of the rebellion.

Weakest Link in the Chain of Leadership:
Out of the three options given, Bahadur Shah II was probably the weakest link in the chain of leadership during the revolt of 1857. He was the last Mughal emperor, who was declared the leader of the rebellion but lacked the necessary leadership qualities to lead an armed rebellion against the British.

Reasons for Bahadur Shah II's Weakness:
1. Lack of military experience: Bahadur Shah II had no military experience, and he was more interested in poetry and music than warfare. This lack of experience made it difficult for him to lead the armed rebellion effectively.

2. Age and Health Issues: Bahadur Shah II was 82 years old during the revolt, and his health was not good. He suffered from various ailments, which made it difficult for him to take active part in the rebellion.

3. Lack of Political Support: Bahadur Shah II did not have the support of most of the Indian leaders who participated in the rebellion. Many of them saw him as a figurehead, and it was difficult for him to assert his authority over them.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Bahadur Shah II was probably the weakest link in the chain of leadership during the revolt of 1857. His lack of military experience, age and health issues, and lack of political support affected the outcome of the rebellion. However, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of all the Indian leaders who participated in the revolt and fought against the British East India Company's oppressive policies.

• The Revolt was a failure due to localized and poorly organized.
• The Revolt lacked mass support.
• The lack of common ideal among sepoys was the cause of the failure.
• It was hard to find a leader who has the military capability and political skills.
• The sepoys didn’t have any support from the ruling prince.

The correct answer is option 'A' i.e. Kanpur.

Kanpur is located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It was the site of a significant event during India's struggle for independence from British rule.

The Incident:

In 1857, Indian soldiers in the British army, known as sepoys, revolted against their British officers. This rebellion, which spread throughout northern India, is known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857 or the First War of Indian Independence.

In June 1857, a group of sepoys in Kanpur rebelled against their British officers and captured the city. They were led by Nana Sahib, the adopted son of the last Peshwa (ruler) of the Maratha Empire. The British garrison in Kanpur, consisting of around 900 soldiers, was taken captive by the rebels.

Assured of Safe Conduct:

Nana Sahib assured the British garrison that they would be provided safe passage to the nearest British outpost if they surrendered their weapons. The British soldiers, who were running low on supplies and ammunition, agreed to the offer.

However, Nana Sahib did not keep his promise. Instead of providing safe passage, he and his followers massacred the British soldiers in a brutal manner. The exact number of casualties is disputed, but it is believed that around 120 women and children were killed.

Impact:

The massacre at Kanpur was a turning point in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It led to a brutal crackdown by the British, who were determined to suppress the rebellion. The British eventually recaptured Kanpur and executed many of the rebels, including Nana Sahib. The rebellion was finally crushed in 1858, and India remained under British rule until 1947.

Conclusion:

The massacre at Kanpur is a reminder of the brutality of colonialism and the sacrifices made by Indians in their struggle for freedom. It is also a cautionary tale about the dangers of trusting one's enemy, as the British soldiers in Kanpur learned to their cost.

**Answer:**

**A) Tantia Tope**

Tatya Tope, also known as Tantia Tope, was one of the key leaders of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He was born as Ramachandra Pandurang Tope in 1814 in Pune, Maharashtra. Tantia Tope played a crucial role in organizing and leading the rebellion against the British East India Company.

**Role in the Rebellion:**

1. **Leadership in Central India:** After the revolt was crushed in Avadh (Awadh) and many leaders were either killed or forced into hiding, Tantia Tope emerged as one of the prominent leaders of the rebellion in Central India. He organized and led guerilla warfare against the British forces.

2. **Jungle Warfare:** Tantia Tope and his followers took refuge in the jungles of Central India, where they continued to resist British rule. They employed guerilla tactics, using the dense forest cover to their advantage. This strategy allowed them to launch surprise attacks on British forces and then retreat quickly into the forests, making it difficult for the British to capture them.

3. **Betrayal and Capture:** Despite his efforts to evade capture, Tantia Tope was eventually betrayed by a fellow rebel. In 1859, he was captured by the British near the town of Shivpuri in present-day Madhya Pradesh. The British forces, led by General Napier, arrested Tantia Tope and his loyalists.

4. **Trial and Execution:** Tantia Tope was put on trial by the British for his role in the rebellion. He was charged with waging war against the British East India Company. In April 1859, Tantia Tope was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging. On April 18, 1859, he was executed in Shivpuri.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, Tantia Tope was a prominent leader during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He played a crucial role in leading guerilla warfare in the jungles of Central India. However, he was eventually betrayed and captured by the British, leading to his trial and execution in 1859.

The result of the investigation conducted by the Inam Commission at Bombay, appointed by Lord Dalhousie, before the Revolt of 1857 was that 20,000 estates in the Deccan were confiscated. This decision had significant implications for the landowners and the overall socio-political landscape of the region.

The Inam Commission was established to investigate the titles of landowners, particularly in the Deccan region. The commission aimed to determine the legitimacy of land grants, known as inams, which were given to individuals or institutions by the Mughal and Maratha rulers. These land grants exempted the owners from paying land revenue.

The investigation revealed that many of these land grants were either fraudulent or invalid. The commission found numerous instances where landowners had obtained inams unlawfully or through forged documents. As a result, the commission recommended the confiscation of approximately 20,000 estates in the Deccan.

This decision had a profound impact on the affected landowners. The confiscation of their estates meant that they lost their traditional source of income and livelihood. Many of them were also stripped of their social status and influence. This created a sense of deep resentment and anger among the landowners, who felt that their rights and privileges were being violated.

Additionally, the confiscation of the estates led to a significant redistribution of land and wealth. The confiscated estates were brought under direct control of the British administration, which further strengthened their grip on the region. This move also disrupted the existing power dynamics and social structures, as the British favored certain individuals and communities over others in the allocation of land.

It is important to note that while the investigation by the Inam Commission and the subsequent confiscation of estates contributed to the underlying discontent that eventually led to the Revolt of 1857, it was not the sole cause of the rebellion. The revolt had multiple factors, including economic, political, and social grievances, which were exacerbated by British policies and actions.

In conclusion, the result of the investigation conducted by the Inam Commission at Bombay, appointed by Lord Dalhousie, before the Revolt of 1857 was the confiscation of approximately 20,000 estates in the Deccan. This decision had far-reaching consequences for the affected landowners and the overall socio-political landscape of the region.

Lord Dalhousie, whose full name was James Andrew Broun-Ramsay, was a British statesman and colonial administrator who served as the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. He is known for his ambitious modernization and reform policies, which greatly transformed India during his tenure.

Dalhousie introduced several significant reforms in various fields, including infrastructure, education, communication, and administration. He initiated the construction of railways, bridges, and roads, which helped connect different parts of India and facilitated trade and commerce. He also established the telegraph network in India, improving communication and connecting the country with the outside world.

In the field of education, Dalhousie established numerous schools and colleges, including the renowned Indian Engineering College (now known as the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur) and the Roorkee College (now known as the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee). He also laid the foundation for the modern postal system in India.

Dalhousie is controversially remembered for his policies of annexation, also known as the Doctrine of Lapse. Under this policy, he annexed several princely states that did not have a direct male heir, claiming that they had lapsed to the British East India Company. This policy was met with resistance and opposition from many Indian rulers and was seen as a violation of the sovereignty of the princely states.

Despite his reforms and modernization efforts, Dalhousie's tenure also witnessed the outbreak of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny. The rebellion, which began as a result of various grievances against British rule, marked a turning point in India's struggle for independence.

Lord Dalhousie left India in 1856 and returned to Britain, where he continued to play a role in politics and public life. He passed away in 1860 at the age of 57.

The Raja of Puwain was paid Rs. 50,000 as reward money by the British for treacherously killing Maulavi Ahmadullah. This incident took place during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

Background:
Maulavi Ahmadullah was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He was a Muslim cleric who had actively participated in the rebellion against the British rule. He had organized a movement in Awadh and Rohilkhand to overthrow the British rule and establish a free and independent India. He had even formed an army of his own and had fought several battles against the British forces.

The role of the Raja of Puwain:
The Raja of Puwain was a local chieftain who had initially supported the rebellion. However, he later switched sides and joined hands with the British forces. He was promised a huge sum of money as a reward for his treachery. The British wanted to eliminate Maulavi Ahmadullah, who was seen as a major threat to their rule, and they saw the Raja of Puwain as the perfect tool to do so.

The killing of Maulavi Ahmadullah:
The Raja of Puwain invited Maulavi Ahmadullah to his palace under the pretext of holding peace talks. However, he had already made a secret deal with the British forces to betray the Maulavi. When Maulavi Ahmadullah arrived at the palace, he was ambushed by the British forces and the Raja of Puwain's men. He was killed in the ensuing battle.

The aftermath:
The killing of Maulavi Ahmadullah was a major blow to the rebellion. It demoralized the rebels and boosted the morale of the British forces. The Raja of Puwain was given the promised reward money of Rs. 50,000 by the British. However, he was later assassinated by his own people who were angered by his treachery.

Conclusion:
The killing of Maulavi Ahmadullah by the Raja of Puwain was a shameful act of treachery. It was a clear example of how the British used local chieftains and rulers to suppress the rebellion and maintain their hold over India. It is a dark chapter in India's history and serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed by the British during their rule.

The international situation during the Revolt of 1857 favoured the British in multiple ways, as mentioned below:

End of Crimean War and Trouble in Persia:
• The Crimean War ended in 1856, and the trouble in Persia was also resolved.
• This meant that the British could divert their attention and resources towards suppressing the revolt in India.

Delay in War with China:
• The British were also able to delay the Second Opium War with China, which was scheduled to begin in 1857.
• This allowed them to focus on the situation in India without having to worry about another front.

Recall of Indian Army:
• The British were able to recall the Indian Army, which was deployed in various parts of the world for service abroad.
• This was crucial as the Indian soldiers were well-trained and experienced, and their absence would have weakened the British forces in India.

Conclusion:
Therefore, the combination of these factors worked in favour of the British during the Revolt of 1857, and enabled them to quell the rebellion and reassert their control over India.

Bahadur Shah, after initial vacillation, wrote letters to all the chiefs and rulers of India urging them to organise a confederacy of Indian states to fight and replace the British regime. The entire Bengal Army soon rose in revolt which spread quickly. Awadh, Rohilkhand, the Doab, the Bundelkhand, central India, large parts of Bihar and East Punjab shook off British authority.