Causes of the Failure: The Revolt of 1857 Video Lecture | History for UPSC CSE

Ans. The main causes of the Revolt of 1857 were a combination of political, economic, and social factors. Some of the key causes include: - Political grievances: The annexation of Indian princely states by the British East India Company, the introduction of new land revenue policies, and the disregard for Indian rulers' authority led to resentment among the Indian population. - Economic exploitation: The British policies, such as high land taxes, the introduction of new revenue systems, and the destruction of traditional industries, resulted in economic hardships for the Indians. - Social and religious factors: The introduction of Western education, the issue of religious conversions, and the use of cow and pig fat in cartridges (which offended both Hindus and Muslims) further fueled the discontent among the Indian soldiers and civilians. - Sepoy grievances: The Indian sepoys (soldiers) in the British Indian Army faced discriminatory practices, lack of career growth opportunities, and the fear of losing their cultural and religious practices.

Ans. The annexation of Indian princely states by the British East India Company was one of the leading causes of the Revolt of 1857. The annexation policy involved the British taking over the territories and powers of Indian rulers, which led to the loss of authority and prestige for the native rulers. This created a sense of resentment and anger among the Indian population, including the soldiers in the British Indian Army. The annexation policy also resulted in the loss of land, revenues, and privileges for the Indian nobility, further adding to the grievances. Additionally, the British often imposed their own laws and regulations, disregarding the customs and traditions of the Indian population, which fueled the discontent and desire for rebellion.

Ans. Economic exploitation played a significant role in triggering the Revolt of 1857. The British policies, such as high land taxes, the introduction of new revenue systems, and the destruction of traditional industries, had a detrimental impact on the Indian economy. The heavy taxation burdened the Indian peasants and landowners, leading to widespread poverty and economic hardships. The introduction of new revenue systems, like the Zamindari and Ryotwari systems, further disrupted the existing agrarian structures and resulted in increased exploitation of the farmers. Additionally, the British policies also suppressed indigenous industries to promote British goods, causing unemployment and loss of livelihoods. These economic grievances and hardships created a fertile ground for rebellion and resistance against British rule.

Ans. Social and religious factors played a significant role in the Revolt of 1857. The introduction of Western education and ideas by the British led to a clash of cultures and values. The Indian soldiers and civilians felt that their cultural and religious practices were being undermined by the British authorities. The issue of religious conversions, where the British missionaries actively sought to convert Indians to Christianity, further fueled the religious tensions. Moreover, the use of cow and pig fat in cartridges, which were rumored to be used by the British Indian Army, offended both Hindus (who consider cows sacred) and Muslims (who consider pigs impure). These social and religious factors acted as catalysts for the rebellion and united people across different regions and backgrounds in their resistance against British rule.

Ans. The grievances of the Indian sepoys (soldiers) in the British Indian Army played a vital role in the Revolt of 1857. The sepoys faced discriminatory practices, lack of career growth opportunities, and a growing fear of losing their cultural and religious practices. The British officers held higher ranks and received better pay, while the Indian sepoys were often treated as second-class soldiers. The promotion and career opportunities were limited for Indians, and they were denied the same rights and privileges as their British counterparts. Moreover, there were rumors among the sepoys that the British intended to convert them to Christianity. All these factors, coupled with the use of cow and pig fat in cartridges, which were to be bitten open by the soldiers, created a strong sense of discontent and anger among the sepoys, leading them to join the rebellion.