The First war of Independence
Robert Clive laid firmly the foundation of the British Empire in India. The Governor Generals who came after ‘Clive carried out the policy of building a British Empire in India. The Indian princes became dolls in the hands of the British rulers. The Indian history has completely changed and the Britishers had almost established their supreme power in India.
When in 1857, the British made preparations to celebrate the centenary of their last victory over Indian, the patriotic feelings of people were aroused. Wellesley and Dalhousie dethroned many kings. The pensions and allowances given to many of them were stopped.
The Christian missionaries were actively spreading their religion and converting the masses. The British encouraged these missionaries. The British conquered not only the country but also the culture of India. The social reforms of the British annoyed the Hindus.
The Indian soldiers in the British army were paid very low and they were not given high posts. There was a talk that the fat of cows and pigs was used to grease the cartridges. The cow was sacred to the Hindus and the pig was for bidden to the Muslims. The soldiers refused to use those cartridges. Thus began the mutiny.
At Barrack pore, an Indian sepoy shot dead a British officer. This sepoy was put to death by the British. This roused the feelings of other patriots. The revolt started and it spread, to other places in India where the Indian armies were stationed.
Nana Sahib was leading the people at Kanpur. Tantia Topi was one of the brave leaders. At Jhansi, Rani Lakshmi Bai was the leader of the revolt. She fought very bravely against the British.
In this revolt, there was neither a common plan nor a coordination between the Indians. They were revolting in isolated groups in different parts for different grievances. They did not have the man and materials, But the British army had the latest weapons.
The revolt had its effects. The British parliament was not satisfied with the rule of the East India company in India. So, it was decided to take over the administration of India.
In 1858, Queen Victoria of England issued a proclamation and India came under the direct rule of the British Government. The queen promised to rule justly. The Indian princes were assured of the right of adoption arid succession. Lord Canning was the first Viceroy of India, under the crown. The first war of independence opened a new chapter in the history. The people’s thirst for freedom could not be quenched. A new wave of nationalism spread over the country.
