What were the causes of the Indian revolt of 1857?

The Indian revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion or Sepoy Mutiny, was a significant event in the history of India's struggle for independence. Several factors led to the eruption of this revolt. Firstly, the Indian soldiers, known as sepoys, were deeply dissatisfied with the British East India Company's policies, especially their attempts to undermine Indian religious and cultural practices. The introduction of new cartridges greased with animal fat sparked a religious outrage, as it was believed to violate Hindu and Muslim traditions. Additionally, economic grievances played a role, as the sepoys felt that their low salaries and lack of proper benefits were unjust. Furthermore, the Indian nobility, who had been marginalized and lost their power due to British rule, also played a role in fueling the revolt. Lastly, the perceived disdain and disrespect shown towards Indian soldiers by their British officers added to the underlying resentment and frustration that eventually led to the outbreak of the Indian revolt of 1857.

British Colonial Rule Sepoy Mutiny Religious Tensions Economic Exploitation Cultural Imperialism