Who was the Governor at the time of 1857 revolt?
VerifiedAnswer: Charles John Canning
Explanation:
Charles John Canning served as the Governor-General of India during the historic 1857 revolt, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857 or the First War of Indian Independence. He held this crucial position from February 1856 to May 1862, making him the key British administrator who had to deal with one of the most significant uprisings against British colonial rule in India.
The 1857 revolt began in Meerut on May 10, 1857, and quickly spread across northern and central India. As Governor-General, Canning faced the enormous challenge of suppressing this widespread rebellion that threatened British control over the subcontinent. The revolt involved sepoys (Indian soldiers), rulers of princely states, and common people who had various grievances against British policies and practices.
During the crisis, Canning demonstrated remarkable composure and earned the nickname "Clemency Canning" for his relatively moderate approach toward dealing with the rebels after the revolt was suppressed. Unlike many other British officials who wanted harsh revenge, he advocated for measured punishment and tried to prevent excessive retribution against Indians.
One of the most significant outcomes of the 1857 revolt under Canning's administration was the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown. The Government of India Act 1858 was passed, which ended the East India Company's rule and brought India directly under British government control. This marked a major turning point in Indian colonial history.
Following this administrative change, Canning became the first Viceroy of India in 1858, making him a unique figure in Indian colonial history as he served as both the last Governor-General under Company rule and the first Viceroy under Crown rule. His leadership during this transitional period was crucial in reshaping British administrative policies in India and establishing the foundation for the later colonial governance structure that would continue until India's independence in 1947.
