Notes of class 8th History chapter 5

 

History Chapter 5: When People Rebel: 1857 and After

1. Introduction

• The Revolt of 1857: Also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence. It was a major, but ultimately unsuccessful, uprising against the British East India Company's rule.

2. Background to the Revolt

• British East India Company Rule: By the mid-19th century, the British East India Company controlled large parts of India. The Company's rule was marked by economic exploitation, military control, and social changes that displeased many Indians.
• Social and Economic Grievances:
  • Economic Exploitation: Heavy taxes, destruction of traditional industries, and impoverishment of local artisans.
  • Social Reforms: Policies such as the abolition of practices like Sati and the promotion of Western education, which were seen as intrusive by some sections of society.

3. Causes of the Revolt

• Military Causes:
  • Enfield Rifle Cartridge Issue: The introduction of new rifle cartridges greased with animal fat (pork and beef) offended Hindu and Muslim soldiers, as it violated their religious beliefs.
  • Harsh Conditions: Sepoys faced harsh discipline and poor living conditions.
• Political Causes:
  • Doctrine of Lapse: The British policy of annexing territories where rulers had no direct heirs, such as the states of Jhansi and Nagpur.
  • Loss of Autonomy: Loss of local rulers' powers and traditional privileges.
• Economic Causes:
  • Land Revenue System: The exploitative land revenue system led to peasant hardships and increased land taxes.
  • Economic Displacement: Traditional craftsmen and artisans suffered due to the influx of British-manufactured goods.

4. Major Events of the Revolt

• Beginning of the Revolt (May 1857):
  • Initial Spark: The revolt began when sepoys in Meerut, after being punished for refusing to use the new cartridges, revolted and marched to Delhi.
  • Capture of Delhi: The rebels captured Delhi and declared Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, as their leader.
• Spread of the Revolt:
  • Major Centers: The revolt spread to Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, and other regions. Key leaders included Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Nana Saheb, and Begum Hazrat Mahal.
  • Major Battles: Notable battles included the Siege of Delhi, the Siege of Kanpur, and the Siege of Lucknow.

5. Reasons for the Failure of the Revolt

• Lack of Unity: The revolt lacked cohesion and was marked by various regional and sectarian differences. There was no unified command or strategy.
• British Military Strength: The British had a more disciplined and better-equipped army, which was able to suppress the rebellion systematically.
• Limited Support: Many Indian states and communities did not support the revolt, either due to their loyalty to the British or their own grievances.

6. Consequences of the Revolt

• Immediate Consequences:
  • End of East India Company Rule: In 1858, the British government formally ended the East India Company's rule and took direct control of India through the British Crown.
  • Reorganization of the Army: The British restructured the army, reducing the number of Indian soldiers and increasing the presence of British troops.
  • Land Revenue Reforms: The British introduced reforms to improve the efficiency of the revenue system and address some grievances.
• Long-Term Impact:
  • Cultural Impact: Increased awareness of Indian identity and unity against British rule.
  • Political Awakening: The revolt sowed the seeds for future political movements and eventually led to the rise of organized nationalist movements.

7. Conclusion

• Legacy of the Revolt: The 1857 Revolt is remembered as a significant early expression of Indian resistance against colonial rule. It marked the beginning of a more organized struggle for independence that would gain momentum in the following decades.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Sepoy Mutiny: The uprising of Indian soldiers against the British East India Company in 1857.
• Doctrine of Lapse: A policy by which the British annexed princely states where the ruler had no direct heir.
• Bahadur Shah Zafar: The last Mughal emperor who was declared the symbolic leader of the revolt.

Important Dates

• May 1857: The revolt begins in Meerut.
• September 1857: Capture of Delhi by British forces.
• 1858: The British government formally takes over control from the East India Company.

These notes provide a comprehensive overview of the events, causes, and consequences of the 1857 Revolt and its aftermath. Make sure to review your textbook for any additional details or specific information related to your syllabus.

This all information is taken from AI