Revolt of 1857 - Causes, Prominent Leaders & Historical Nature for UPSC

Revolt of 1857

Nature and Character of Revolt of 1857

The revolt was a reaction of the rapid and often insensitive imposition of British rule which affected many sections of the Indian society. The nature of the uprising was inherently diverse as it brought together the different section of the society including peasant, soldiers, landlords and nobility, each with their grievances against the company's policies. This coalition was united in their opposition to British rule but varies in their objectives and aspirations making the revolt a widespread resistance against colonial oppression. The character of revolt was both political and economic. Politically, it represented an attempt to restore olde order where personalities such as Bahadur Shah Zafar were seen as a symbols of authorities and legitimacy. The revolt was not just a military rebellion but also a manifestation of desire to reclaim the autonomy over Indian affairs which had been systematically eroded by the British policies. The annexation of states under the doctrine of lapse, the disrespect shown to the traditional ruler and direct control over the large part of Indian territory by British which was seen as a direct threat to existing political order. Economically the revolt was fuelled by widespread discontent among the common masses especially peasantry due to the British policies in agriculture and trade. Moreover, the British social reforms was also considered by masses as an attack upon Indian culture and tradition. Military aspect of revolt was significant as it was initially triggered by the sepoys in the British army and the immediate cause was Greased cartridge. The 1857 uprising was not an isolated incident but a culmination of series of local and the regional rebellions that were witnessed across India during the period before the revolt. Calling the revolt of 1857 as a nationalist uprising and the first war of independence is a matter of historical interpretation with different opinion among the historian and scholars. The revolt which began as a mutiny eventually got the support from various segments of Indian society including the peasants, landlords and deposed rulers. It spread across northern and central India and it gave tough challenge to British force. However, it fail to evolve into a unify national movement with common goal of achieving independence form British rule. To understand whether it termed as nationalist uprising and first war of independence one needs to examine the nature, scope and objectives behind the revolt.