1857 First War of Independence and its Aftermath lecture 3.pptx

1857 and its Aftermath

The War of 1857, also known as the First War of Independence or Sepoy Mutiny, was a major uprising against British rule in India. It began with discontent among Indian soldiers over cultural and religious grievances but soon turned into a widespread revolt. Although the uprising was suppressed, it had far-reaching effects: the East India Company’s rule ended, and India came directly under the British Crown. The revolt also created mistrust between Hindus and Muslims, while inspiring future nationalist movements that eventually led to India’s independence.

1. 1857 and its Aftermath

2. End of Mughal Rule T he Mughal Empire officially ended. Bahadur Shah Zafar was sent to exile in Rangoon, where he died in 1862. Delhi was placed under direct British control.

3. Abolition of East India Company The British East India Company was blamed for the revolt. In 1858 , the Company was abolished. India came directly under the British Crown (Queen Victoria).

4. British Government Rule The Government of India Act 1858 was passed. A new post called Viceroy of India was created (first viceroy was Lord Canning). Britain promised to respect the religious and social customs of Indians, but kept strong control.

5. Main Points of the Act End of East India Company Rule The East India Company was abolished. Its powers and territories were taken over by the British Crown. Direct Rule of the British Crown India came under the rule of Queen Victoria She became the Empress of India (officially in 1877).

6. New Office Created A new office called Secretary of State for India was made in London. He controlled all Indian affairs with the help of a council. Governor-General became Viceroy The Governor-General of India was now called the Viceroy , representing the British Crown. First Viceroy: Lord Canning .

7. Promise to Indians Queen Victoria issued a Proclamation of 1858 : Assured that the British would respect Indians’ religions and traditions. Promised equal treatment under law But in reality, British control became even stronger.

8. Repression and Punishment Rebels were brutally punished — thousands executed or imprisoned. Properties of rebels were confiscated. People of Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow suffered heavy destruction.

9. Changes in Army The British reorganized the Indian army. They increased the number of British soldiers and reduced Indian soldiers. They followed the policy of “divide and rule” — separating Hindus and Muslims in the army.

10. Divide and Rule Policy The British started spreading mistrust between Hindus and Muslims. They realized united Indians could challenge them, so they tried to break unity. This later led to separate political movements.

11. Rise of Nationalism Although the revolt failed, it sowed the seeds of nationalism. Indians realized they must unite to fight the British. Later movements (Indian National Congress in 1885, Muslim League in 1906) came from this awakening .