4) the consequences of the revolt of 1857 were far reaching and all encompassing comment
Answers
Answer:
The Revolt of 1857 marked a turning point in the history of Modern India. It exercised a tremendous influence upon the British policy in India. The character of the Indian empire in the last decades of the nineteenth century was shaped to a large extent by the events of 1857. The considerable support, which the revolt obtained, and the threat it posed to the very existence of British rule in India during the year 1857, forced the British to examine the entire nature of their connection with India. The consequences of the Revolt of 1857 may be studied under below head, which might be construed as positive or negative depending upon our own interpretation.
Explanation:
Revolt of 1857 had far-reaching political, military, social and economic results as follows:
Political
The administration of India now passed from the English East India Company to the British crown by the Government of India Act, 1858. A Secretary of State of India was appointed in England. He was to be assisted by a 15- member advisory council. The Queen’s Proclamation also promised to discontinue the practice of annexation, and recognize adoption. Religious freedom was also assured. The proclamation also assured political reforms which were fulfilled to some extent by the 1861 Councils Act.
Military
The military administration was strengthened. The numbers of European troops were increased and all artillery units were placed in European hands. The different classes of sepoys were mixed. All important posts in the army were reserved for the English.
Social
The English felt that their social reforms were a cause for the Revolt. So they began to tread cautiously in this regard. They also started encouraging such social conservatives against nationalists during the freedom movement. It also increased racial bitterness between the English and Indians.
Economic
The Revolt also brought massive economic destruction. Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur were completely destroyed. The public debt of the country rose by about 98 million sterling.
Other impacts
A positive aspect of the Revolt was that it laid the foundation for the later nationalist movement. The Revolt was a beacon for the later nationalist leaders. The exploits of the Revolt leaders inspired them to take on the mighty British Empire.