Question

What was the immediate cause for the Revolt of 1857?

Answer 1

Hint:
The immediate factor was connected with exploitation of the beliefs of Hindus and Muslims.
This period was marked by haunted memories in the Indian history.
According to some historians it is also known as the First War of Indian Independence.

Complete answer:
The introduction of the ‘Enfield Rifle’ was the immediate cause of the Revolt 1857 because it was of the opinion that the cartridge of the Enfield Rifle had to be bitten before using it. The cartridge was made up of pork and beef. For Hindus, beef was considered impure because they worshiped the sacred animal cow. On the other hand, Muslims considered pork as impure and this led to the introduction of Revolt 1857.

Finally, on 29th March, Mangal Pandey a sepoy at Barrackpore denied the use of cartridges and was hanged to death. The other 85 soldiers on 9th May also refused the use of cartridges and were sentenced to 10 years jail which led to other sepoys' rise in revolt. The revolt spread to different parts of India beginning from Delhi, Jhansi, Kanpur, Bareilly, Lucknow, Awadh, Bihar, Assam, Punjab etc. Thus, began the Revolt of 1857.

Note:
According to some Indian historians it was considered as the ‘First War of Indian Independence’ arising out of a contradiction between foreigners and Indians.
The general factors that led to the revolt were political, economic, social and cultural westernization. The establishment of Indian National Congress led to the beginning of an organized, effective and national self- determination.
The major leader Bahadur Shah, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi fought through this revolt to bring peace and harmony.