The revolt of 1857 was ruthlessly crushed by the British. Many defeated rebels were executed and the population pacified through reprisals and violence.
Along with such violence, the British also adopted some conciliatory measures. The rule of the East India Company was abolished and India came under direct British rule. The British, through Queen Victoria's proclamation promised to be respectful towards the culture and beliefs of Indians. They also promised to respect the sovereignty of native Indian states and not to annex any more territory in India.
Through a mixture of reprisals and conciliation, the British took over India after the 1857 revolt.