Answer:

Introduction

The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion or the First War of Independence, was a result of British expansionist policies, economic exploitation and administrative innovations which adversely affected all sections of the society.

Body

Significance of the Revolt of 1857 in shaping the Indian freedom struggle

• Exposed shortcomings of British rule: The revolt highlighted the oppressive policies, economic exploitation like permanent settlement, and cultural imperialism of the British East India Company.
• Genuine discontent of people: The widespread participation of soldiers, peasants, and rulers showed the deep-rooted grievances against British rule. Example- The greased cartridges and non equal pay to indian soldiers.
• Convinced nationalists: The brutal suppression of the revolt convinced nationalists that non-violent and organized movements would be more effective in challenging British rule. Example- Swadeshi Movement of 1905.
• International Attention: Reports of the uprising reached different parts of the world, including Europe, stirring sympathy and support for the Indian cause.
• Demand for Freedom: For instance, the Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, emerged from the sentiments and aspirations of the revolt’s legacy.
• Seeds of Resistance: Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, and Bhagat Singh drew inspiration from the spirit of rebellion shown in 1857.

Causes of the Revolt of 1857

• Economic exploitation: Deindustrialisation, disturbance of traditional economic framework, commercialisation of agriculture, drain of wealth and exploitative land revenue system caused widespread economic distress. Example- Exploitative Indigo farming.
• Political reasons: Broken pledges and oaths, unfair policies like policy of subsidiary alliance, doctrine of lapse and annexation of Awadh caused deep resentment among locals.
• Administrative reasons: Corruption in administration and alien look of the administration.
  
• Socio-religious grievances: British interference in cultural practices, disrespect shown towards religious sentiments, proselytisation activities and taxes on mosques and temples.
• Influence of outside events: Such as the First Afghan war, Crimean war etc. That gave a sense to natives that the British aren’t invincible and their dominance can be resisted through violence.
• Discontent among Sepoys: Discrimination in payment, mistreatment at the hand of British officials, restrictions on religious symbols, rumours of mixing bone dust in the floor etc.
• Immediate cause: Introduction of greased cartridge.

Key personalities associated with the Revolt of 1857:

• Mangal Pandey: A young sepoy in 34th Native infantry, he sparked the revolt by firing at the sergeant major of his unit at Barrackpore.
• Rani Lakshmibai: The courageous Queen of Jhansi, who actively led her troops in battle against the British and became an icon of resistance.
• Kunwar Singh: An elderly zamindar (landowner) from Bihar, who joined the revolt and emerged as a prominent leader.
• Begum Hazrat Mahal: The wife of the deposed ruler of Awadh, she played a crucial role in the rebellion, leading the resistance in Lucknow.
• Nana Sahib: He led the uprising in Kanpur and captured the British garrison. The subsequent events, including the infamous Bibighar massacre, are associated with his involvement in the revolt.
• General Bahadur Khan: He successfully captured Bareilly and established it as a center of resistance against British rule.

Conclusion:

Overall, the Revolt of 1857 as well as associated personalities played a pivotal role in reshaping the Indian freedom struggle by awakening national consciousness, demanding freedom and sowing the seeds of future resistance movement.

DOWNLOAD PDF