The Santhal rebellion (sometimes referred to as the Sonthal rebellion), commonly known as Santhal Hool, was a native rebellion in present-day Jharkhand, in eastern India against both the British colonial authority and zamindari system by the Santhalpeople.

Santhal Rebellion:

The Santhal Rebellion was a significant tribal uprising that took place in present-day Jharkhand, India, during the mid-19th century. The rebellion was sparked by the oppressive policies and exploitation faced by the Santhal tribe under British colonial rule. The Santhals were one of the largest and most prominent tribal communities in the region.

Causes of the Rebellion:
- Land Alienation: The British introduced the zamindari system, which led to the loss of Santhals' traditional rights over land. They were forced to work as agricultural laborers on their own ancestral lands.
- Economic Exploitation: The Santhals were subjected to high taxes, rent, and forced labor by the British and local landlords. They were pushed into debt bondage and poverty.
- Cultural Suppression: The British administration undermined Santhal culture and customs, imposing their own laws and disregarding their traditional governance structures.

Key Events:
- Revolt Begins: The rebellion started in 1855 when the Santhals, led by their leaders Sidhu and Kanhu, began attacking British officials, zamindars, and moneylenders.
- Guerilla Warfare: The Santhals employed guerilla warfare tactics, utilizing their knowledge of the terrain and their superior fighting skills to resist the British forces.
- Expansion of Rebellion: The rebellion quickly spread throughout the Santhal Parganas region, gaining the support of other tribal communities and peasants who were also suffering from British exploitation.
- British Suppression: The British initially struggled to suppress the rebellion due to the Santhals' strategic advantage and their unity. However, they eventually deployed a large military force and crushed the revolt in 1856.

Consequences:
- Loss of Lives: The rebellion resulted in significant loss of life, with thousands of Santhals being killed in the conflict, including their leaders Sidhu and Kanhu.
- Impact on British Policies: The rebellion led to the introduction of some reforms by the British government, such as the Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act of 1859, which aimed to protect the rights of the tribal communities.
- Symbol of Resistance: The Santhal Rebellion became a symbol of resistance against British colonialism and inspired other indigenous uprisings in different parts of India.
- Cultural Legacy: The rebellion holds great significance in Santhal history and culture, serving as a reminder of their struggle for autonomy and land rights.

Overall, the Santhal Rebellion was a significant chapter in the history of tribal uprisings against British colonial rule, highlighting the exploitation faced by indigenous communities and their resistance to oppressive policies.