From Meerut to Delhi

5.3.1 From Meerut to Delhi

Description

Quick Overview

The uprising against British rule in India began with a revolt by sepoys in Meerut, leading to widespread rebellion and the subsequent declaration of Bahadur Shah Zafar as a leader of the movement.

Standard

The revolt of 1857 was initiated by sepoys in Meerut, triggered by discontent with British policies and military practices. The uprising spread quickly, marked by the declaration of Bahadur Shah Zafar as a leader. This popular uprising involved various social groups and signified a significant challenge against British colonial rule.

Detailed

Detailed Summary

In May 1857, the Indian Sepoys revolted against British colonial rule, viewing their actions as an affront to their rights and religion. The discontent primarily stemmed from new military regulations, including the controversial use of greased cartridges believed to be made of cow and pig fat, which violated their religious beliefs.

On May 10, reacting to the dismissal and punishment of their fellow sepoys, the sepoys in Meerut took action, releasing imprisoned soldiers and declaring war against the British. They marched to Delhi, where they declared Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, as their leader. Zafar’s symbolic acceptance by the rebels integrated the revolt, unifying many diverse Indian factions under the Mughal banner.

As communications spread, rebellion ignited across northern India, with various local leaders joining the uprising and attacking British garrisons. The movement showcased the deep-rooted resentment against British rule and brought together peasants, sepoys, and local chiefs against the colonial government, forming a significant challenge to its authority.

Key Concepts

  • Sepoy Rebellion: The uprising of Indian soldiers against British rule, marking the first significant challenge to British authority in India.

  • Bahadur Shah Zafar: The last Mughal emperor who was proclaimed the leader of the rebellion, signifying a unifying figure against British oppression.

  • Cultural Resistance: Discontent roots related to religious and cultural insensitivities, particularly around military practices.

Memory Aids

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • In '57, sepoys rose, with grievances deep, tired of rules, their honor to keep.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once upon a time, in the land of India, sepoys felt wronged by the British. They gathered, fueled by their anger, and bravely decided to fight, with a noble king, Bahadur Shah Zafar, leading the charge for freedom.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • MUGHAL: Mughal leadership, Unity, Grievances recognized, Historical continuity - for remembering Zafar's significance.

🎯 Super Acronyms

GRAIL

  • Greased cartridges
  • Religious sentiments
  • Agricultural policies
  • Intolerance from British
  • Loans - factors leading to discontent.

Examples

  • The greased cartridges controversy, which involved sepoys’ belief that using them would compromise their religion and caste.

  • The swift retaliation of sepoys in Meerut after the punishment of their fellow soldiers for refusing to use the cartridges.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Sepoy

    Definition:

    An Indian soldier serving under the British East India Company.

  • Term: Bahadur Shah Zafar

    Definition:

    The last Mughal emperor, declared as a leader by the rebels during the revolt.

  • Term: Uprising

    Definition:

    A revolt or rebellion against an authority, typically in a war context.

  • Term: Mughal Empire

    Definition:

    A historical empire that ruled parts of India before the British colonization.

  • Term: Firangis

    Definition:

    A term used to refer to foreigners, often with contempt; specifically British in the context.