Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Revolt of 1857, often termed the First War of Independence, was a watershed moment in the history of British India. However, to view it as an isolated incident would be a historical misrepresentation. The uprising was not a sudden outburst but rather the violent culmination of a century of simmering discontent, manifested in numerous localized rebellions against the expanding British dominion. These earlier uprisings, though often limited in scope and duration, laid the groundwork for the widespread revolt of 1857 by exposing the vulnerabilities of British rule and fostering a spirit of resistance amongst various sections of Indian society.
Early Resistance (Pre-1800)
Prior to the 19th century, resistance to British rule was largely fragmented and localized, often stemming from economic exploitation and interference in local affairs.
- Sanyasi Rebellion (1770s): Driven by economic hardship caused by the British revenue policies, Sanyasis and Fakirs in Bengal revolted against the East India Company.
- Poligars’ Rebellion (1795-1805): In South India, the Poligars (local chieftains) resisted the British attempts to expand their control over their territories and impose new revenue systems. Kattabomman and Veera Pandiya were prominent leaders.
- Velu Thampi’s Rebellion (1808-1809): In Travancore, Velu Thampi Dalava led a revolt against the British Resident’s interference in the state’s internal affairs.
Peasant and Tribal Uprisings (1800-1856)
The 19th century witnessed a surge in peasant and tribal uprisings, fueled by land revenue policies, displacement, and exploitation.
- Paika Rebellion (1817-1819): In Odisha, the Paika tribe revolted against the British after they abolished the traditional ‘Kudikud’ system of land tenure.
- Kittur Uprising (1824): Rani Chennamma of Kittur led a rebellion against the British after they refused to recognize her adopted son as the heir to the throne.
- Kol Rebellion (1831-32): The Kol tribe in Chota Nagpur revolted against the oppressive land revenue system and the exploitation by moneylenders.
- Santal Rebellion (1855-56): Led by Sido and Kanhu Murmu, the Santal tribe in Bihar revolted against the British and their allies, the Zamindars, due to land alienation and exploitation. This rebellion was particularly significant as it directly preceded the 1857 uprising.
Religious and Political Movements
Alongside peasant and tribal revolts, religious and political movements also contributed to the growing anti-British sentiment.
- Wahabi Movement (1820s-1870s): A puritanical Islamic movement that aimed to purify Islam and resist British influence. It gained support among the Muslims in Bengal and Northwest India.
- Faraizi Movement (1818-1857): Led by Haji Shariatullah, this movement advocated for a return to the pure form of Islam and opposed British policies.
British Policies as Catalysts
Several British policies exacerbated the existing discontent and contributed to the build-up towards 1857.
- Land Revenue Systems: The introduction of systems like the Permanent Settlement, Ryotwari, and Mahalwari led to increased land revenue demands and widespread agrarian distress.
- Subsidiary Alliance: This policy undermined the autonomy of Indian rulers and brought them under British control.
- Doctrine of Lapse: Lord Dalhousie’s Doctrine of Lapse, which annexed states without a natural heir, created widespread resentment among Indian rulers.
- Religious and Social Interference: British attempts to impose Western education and social reforms were perceived as an attack on traditional Indian values and customs.
| Rebellion | Year(s) | Region | Cause |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paika Rebellion | 1817-1819 | Odisha | Abolition of Kudikud system |
| Kittur Uprising | 1824 | Karnataka | Dispute over succession |
| Santal Rebellion | 1855-56 | Bihar | Land alienation & exploitation |
Conclusion
The 1857 Uprising was undeniably the culmination of a century of resistance, born from the cumulative effect of numerous localized rebellions. These earlier uprisings, though often suppressed, served as crucial precursors, exposing the weaknesses of British rule and fostering a collective consciousness of resistance. The British policies, particularly in land revenue and political control, acted as catalysts, intensifying the discontent and ultimately leading to the widespread revolt of 1857. Understanding this historical continuum is vital for a nuanced comprehension of India’s struggle for independence.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.