Causes of the 1857 Revolt

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What was the immediate cause of the 1857 Revolt?

The immediate cause was the introduction of the new Enfield rifle, which required soldiers to bite off the cartridges greased with animal fat, offensive to both Hindu and Muslim soldiers.

How did economic exploitation contribute to the 1857 Revolt?

Economic policies under British rule drained India of wealth, leading to widespread poverty and discontent against British economic policies, contributing to rebellion.

What role did social and religious causes play in the 1857 revolt?

Social and religious reforms imposed by the British, perceived as interference in traditional Indian social and religious customs, led to widespread resentment.

How did the Doctrine of Lapse contribute to the causes of the revolt?

The Doctrine of Lapse allowed the British to annex any princely state not governed by a male heir, contributing to resentment among Indian rulers.

In what way did military grievances fuel the 1857 Revolt?

Lack of pay, harsh discipline, and racial discrimination within the army contributed considerably to dissatisfaction among Indian soldiers, leading to the revolt.

How did political factors lead to the revolt of 1857?

Policies like the annexation of territories and lack of representation in governance angered Indian rulers and nobles, fueling the revolt.

How did the impact of British policies on Indian peasants contribute to the revolt?

High taxes and unfair land tenure systems imposed by the British led to widespread peasant distress, contributing to the uprising.

How did cultural disrespect play a role in causing the revolt?

Disrespect towards Indian customs and constant undermining of traditional practices by the British created a cultural resentment that fueled the revolt.

What influence did the Bahadur Shah II have on the 1857 Revolt?

Bahadur Shah II was seen as a symbolic leader for the rebels, representing a unifying figurehead against British rule during the revolt.

What was the role of economic hardship in the 1857 Revolt?

Widespread poverty caused by British economic policies increased dissatisfaction among Indians, contributing to the revolt.

What was the effect of racial discrimination on the 1857 Revolt?

Racial discrimination by British rulers and officials fostered resentment among Indians, while discrimination in the army led to discontent among sepoys.

How did Indian rulers react to the policy of annexation?

Many Indian rulers resented the British annexation policies, feeling threatened by the loss of sovereignty and power, contributing to their support for the revolt.

What were the impacts of British reforms on the traditional Indian society?

British reforms, viewed as intrusive, disrupted traditional social and religious structures, creating an environment ripe for rebellion.

How did the employment of Christian missionaries by the British affect the revolt?

The missionary activities were seen as attempts at forced conversion, creating fear and animosity among Indians, adding to the causes of the revolt.

Why did the introduction of the Dalhousie Reforms cause discontent?

The Dalhousie Reforms, including infrastructure improvements at the cost of local lands and autonomy, fostered resentment among Indians.


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