History

Revolt of 1857: Causes, Leaders and Consequences

The Revolt of 1857 began at Meerut on 10 May 1857 as a mutiny of Indian soldiers and grew into a wider uprising against East India Company rule. It led to the end of Company rule and the transfer of power to the British Crown through the Government of India Act, 1858.

Last reviewed 2026-10-15

Causes

Political: the Doctrine of Lapse under Lord Dalhousie and the annexation of Awadh in 1856.
Economic: heavy land revenue, and the decline of handicrafts.
Military: discrimination against Indian soldiers, and the Enfield rifle cartridges rumoured to be greased with animal fat, which was the immediate trigger.
Social and religious: fear of interference with customs.

Centres and leaders

Delhi: Bahadur Shah Zafar was proclaimed leader.
Kanpur: Nana Sahib with Tatya Tope.
Jhansi: Rani Lakshmibai.
Lucknow: Begum Hazrat Mahal.
Bihar (Jagdishpur): Kunwar Singh.

Consequences

Government of India Act, 1858 ended Company rule. The Queen's Proclamation of 1 November 1858 announced Crown rule.
The Governor-General became the Viceroy. Lord Canning was the first Viceroy.
The army was reorganised and a policy of divide and rule was strengthened.

Frequently asked questions

Where did the Revolt of 1857 begin?

At Meerut on 10 May 1857.

Who was the first Viceroy of India?

Lord Canning.

Which Act ended East India Company rule?

The Government of India Act, 1858.