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Explain how the Uprising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India. (GS 1 UPSC MAINS )

  • One of the important events of Indian history is the 'Revolt of 1857' or 'India's first war of Independence' or 'The Sepoy Mutiny'. It was the first rebellion against the East India Company which took the massive form. It showed resentment towards British policies thus it acted as the watershed in the evolution of British policies towards colonial India. 
  • Britishers felt that the efforts to westernize the Indian society were one of the reasons which caused the mutiny, after the revolt they tried to integrate Indian higher castes and rulers into the government and abolished any attempts of westernisation. Similarly the government distanced itself further from the Christian missionaries. 
  • The revolt depicted the Hindu-Muslin unity thus Britishers started to appease one community over the other giving rise to the divide and rule policy. 
  • It led to the dissolution of the east India company in 1858 with the passage of government of India act and was there after directly governed by the crown. 
  • A new post named Secretary of State was created to govern India and formulate Indian policy. The Governor General from now on called as viceroy implemented the policies. 
  • Doctrine of lapse policy was one of the main causes of the revolt was ended. 
  • Administrative changes were made in the executive, legislative and judicial arenas with greater participation of Indians .This change was visible in the Indian Council Act 1861, the Indian High court act 1861 and the Indian Civil Services Act 1861. 
  • After the rebellion British reorganized the army and brought changes in the financial system and administration as well. These troops were replaced by new units recruited from castes hitherto under-utilized by the British and from the so-called "Martial Races", such as the Sikhs and the Gorkhas, which were not part of mainstream Indian culture. 
  • The British increased the ratio of British to Indian soldiers within India. From 1861 Indian artillery was replaced by British units.

Topics Covered - The Revolt of 1857

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FAQs on GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Revolt of 1857 - History for UPSC CSE

1. What were the main causes of the Revolt of 1857?
Ans. The main causes of the Revolt of 1857 included discontent among Indian soldiers due to issues like low pay, lack of promotions, and disrespect from British officers. There were also religious and social grievances, such as the use of animal fat in cartridges which offended both Hindu and Muslim soldiers, as well as resentment towards British interference in Indian customs and traditions.
2. How did the Revolt of 1857 impact the British rule in India?
Ans. The Revolt of 1857 led to significant changes in British policies towards India, such as the end of the East India Company's rule and the beginning of direct British control over India through the British Crown. It also resulted in the implementation of various reforms to address the grievances of Indian soldiers and civilians.
3. What role did Indian leaders play in the Revolt of 1857?
Ans. Indian leaders like Rani Lakshmi Bai, Nana Sahib, and Bahadur Shah II played key roles in leading the rebellion against British rule during the Revolt of 1857. They inspired and mobilized Indian soldiers and civilians to fight against British oppression and strive for independence.
4. How did the Revolt of 1857 impact the Indian society and culture?
Ans. The Revolt of 1857 had a lasting impact on Indian society and culture as it intensified nationalistic sentiments among Indians and fostered a sense of unity and solidarity against British imperialism. It also highlighted the need for social and religious reforms in Indian society.
5. What were the major consequences of the Revolt of 1857 on the British Empire?
Ans. The Revolt of 1857 led to the dissolution of the East India Company's rule in India and the transfer of power to the British Crown. It also resulted in the implementation of various administrative reforms, such as the establishment of the Indian Civil Service, to strengthen British control over India and prevent future uprisings.
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