What was the reason behind the revolt of 1857

The revolt of 1857, also known as India's First War of Independence, Sepoy Mutiny or Indian Mutiny, started as a result of many reasons. Its main reasons were as follows:

1. Political reasons

- Under the 'Doctrine of Lapse' of the British East India Company, states without heirs were annexed to the British Empire. Example: Jhansi, Satara, Nagpur, Kumbhalgarh Fort In Rajasthan, etc.

- The harsh attitude of the British towards Indian kings and princely states.

2. Economic reasons

- The condition of farmers worsened due to the burden of heavy taxes on them and land policies by the British.

- Traditional artisans and traders faced economic crisis due to British industrial goods.

3. Social and religious reasons

- Interference of the British in Indian society, such as the ban on Sati Pratha and the forced imposition of social reforms.

- The insulting gesture of the British towards Indian culture, customs and religion.

4. Military reasons

- Discriminatory treatment towards Indian soldiers, such as they receive less pay and facilities.

- Forcing Indian soldiers to cross the sea, which was considered unfair from the religious point of view.

5. Immediate causes

- The rumour of pig and cow fat being used in the cartridges of Enfield rifles caused deep resentment among the soldiers. This fat was against the religious beliefs of both Hindu and Muslim communities.

Start of the revolt:
The revolt began on 10 May 1857 in Meerut, when the soldiers refused to use this cartridge and revolted against it. Gradually this revolt spread to Delhi, Kanpur, Jhansi, Lucknow and many other areas.

Main leaders:
- Bahadur Shah Zafar (Delhi)
- Nana Saheb (Kanpur)
- Tatya Tope (Kanpur)
- Rani Lakshmibai (Jhansi)-

- Begum Hazrat Mahal (Lucknow)

This rebellion laid the foundation of the Indian freedom struggle, even though it was suppressed, it strengthened the spirit of struggle for freedom among the Indian people.