Question

Why did the Indian soldiers revolt against the Britishers in 1857? What changes were made to the army after 1858?

Answer 1

Instructions:

• Explain why Indian soldiers revolted against the Britishers in 1857.
• Explain the changes made in the Indian army after 1858.

Solution:

• Causes of Indian Sepoy Mutiny of 1857:
  • The army had a great contribution in the establishment and expansion of British rule in India.
  • In 1856, the number of Indians in the Army was 2,33,000, and Europeans were only 45,322.
  • Indian soldiers were given less salaries and benefits compared to British soldiers. And the British officials treated the Indian soldiers very badly.
  • Indians were only promoted to the post of Subedar.
  • All these led to the Indian Sepoy Mutiny in 1857.
• Changes made in the army after 1858:
  • The number of British soldiers were increased.
  • Only British troops were assigned to the artillery.
  • Indians and Europeans in the army were kept in a ratio of 2:1.
  • Sikhs and Gorkhas were recruited into the army instead of Brahmins of U.P.
  • The Chief Commander was made a member of the Governor-General Council Troop.
  • Armies were formed along religious and caste lines to reduce the possibility of riots using the lack of unity among the soldiers.