The 1857 Rebellion: A

Turning Point in Indian

History
The 1857 Rebellion marked a significant turning point in Indian history.
It set the stage for the eventual struggle against colonial rule and
significantly impacted the political, social, and cultural landscape of
India.

by BHIS School Development

Introduction to East India Company's
Rule
The East India Company's rule in India was marked by a complex and tumultuous relationship with
the local populace. Tensions and discontent brewed among various segments of Indian society
due to the Company's policies and actions.
The Decline of Nawabs and Rajas
1 Erosion of Authority
The power and authority of local rulers gradually diminished as they negotiated
with the East India Company, leading to significant outcomes.

2 Company Negotiations
Examples of negotiations with the Company and their subsequent impacts on the
local rulers and their territories.
Annexation of Awadh
Subsidiary Alliance
Imposition of a subsidiary alliance
and subsequent annexation of
Awadh by the East India Company.
Dalhousie's Reasoning
Insight into Governor-General
Dalhousie's reasoning for British rule
in Awadh and its impact on the
region.
The Decline of the Mughal Dynasty
1 Removal from Coins
Removal of the Mughal king's name
from coins and other actions
affecting the dynasty's status and
position.
2 Company's Impact
Exploration of the impact of the
East India Company's actions on
the Mughal dynasty's future and
influence.
Grievances of Peasants and Sepoys
Peasants' Discontent
Grievances of peasants including issues with
taxes and oppressive revenue collection
methods.
Sepoys' Challenges
Grievances of the sepoys, including
concerns about pay, religious sentiments,
and new rules regarding overseas service.
Triggers of the Rebellion
Soldiers' Declaration
The soldiers' declaration, also known
as the Sepoy Manifesto, was issued
on June 10, 1857, in which the Indian
soldiers declared war against the
British rule. The manifesto
mentioned the greased cartridges
debacle, the annexation of Oudh
and their demands for Viceroy's
command, and a better treatment
of Indian soldiers. The manifesto
was widely circulated and ignited
the rebellion throughout India.
1 Events Leading Up
Events leading up to the rebellion,
including key incidents and triggers
2 that culminated in the uprising.
Exploring the annexation of Oudh,
the introduction of the new Enfield
rifles and the imposition of the
greased cartridges which were
speculated to be made of animal
fat, resulting in religious concerns
for both Hindu and Muslim sepoys.
The Rebellion Spreads
1 Spread to Delhi
The rebellion quickly spread to Delhi and
surrounding areas. People rallied around
Bahadur Shah Zafar, who became the
leader of the uprising.
2 Bahadur Shah's Call
Bahadur Shah Zafar called for a
confederacy against the British. This led
to further developments in the
rebellion.
The Impact of Bahadur Shah's Decision
Effect on Rulers
The support of the Mughal emperor led to a
significant increase in their backing for the
uprising. Many saw his leadership as a
unifying force against British rule and were
inspired to join, strengthening the rebellion's
reach. This shift in alliances posed a
formidable challenge to British authority in
the region.
British Situation
The endorsement of the Mughal emperor
became a rallying point for smaller rulers and
chieftains, who now saw an opportunity to
stand against the British. This bolstered the
rebellion's ranks and posed a greater threat
to the British occupation.