what was a political cause of the Indian rebellion of 1857

1 answer

One of the major political causes of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny or the First War of Independence, was the discontent among Indian soldiers, both in the British Indian Army and the native states, due to various political and administrative policies imposed by the British Empire. These policies included the annexation of Indian princely states, the introduction of the new Enfield rifle and the mandatory use of animal fat-greased cartridges (which offended both Hindu and Muslim soldiers), changes in recruitment practices, and the lack of opportunities for Indian soldiers to advance within the ranks of the British Army. These grievances led to widespread rebellion and a desire for independence among the Indian soldiers, which sparked the larger rebellion against British rule.