Why did the Indians fail in the struggle of 1857?
Answers
•It did not go according to plan.
•There was lack of unity among rebels.
•The revolt was not spread in whole
•Rebels did not have modern weapons.
•There was not strong leadership of the revolt.
Answer:
The struggle of 1857 became unsuccessful due to the following reasons-
The struggle was not comprehensive: The struggle did not take place simultaneously all over India. Its intensity was more severe in North India, but Rajputana, Punjab, some parts of Bengal, and Northwest India remained aloof.
Lack of central leadership: There was no commonly accepted leader to fight against the British. Due to this, there was no uniformity in the struggle against the British.
Most of the feudatory princes remained aloof: Just as the common people suffered due to British rule, similarly the princes also were suffering. But except a few others remained faithful to the British.
Lack of military tactics: Indian soldiers were brave but did not use tactics. They captured Delhi but could not retain it. Similarly, the Indian rebels had limited armed supply. The British had economic strength, a disciplined army, enough stock of the latest arms, and experienced army generals. Since transport and communication were in the hands of the British, their movements were swift. Due to this, the Indian sepoys could not succeed. Wars are fought not only based on bravery but also through military strategies.
The international situation was favorable for Britishers: The Crimean war with Russia was just over. The British won the war. They had trade relations with different countries in the world. The naval strength of the British was vast. Whereas the Indian rebels were isolated.