Question

Which one of the following policies by the British led to discontent among Indian soldiers, contributing to the Revolt of 1857?

• A. The policy of Subsidiary Alliance
• B. The Doctrine of Lapse of Dalhousie
• C. The use of Enfield Rifles with greased cartridges
• D. The introduction of western education system

Hint:

When studying the causes of the 1857 Revolt, focus on the issues that directly affected the soldiers' religious and cultural sensitivities, particularly the greased cartridges incident.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The introduction of the Enfield Rifles with greased cartridges was the primary cause of dissatisfaction among Indian soldiers, igniting the Revolt of 1857. These cartridges were purportedly greased with cow and pig fat, offending both Hindu (for whom cows are sacred) and Muslim (who deem pigs unclean) soldiers. This generated extensive animosity and was instrumental in initiating the revolt.
While the Doctrine of Lapse and the Subsidiary Alliance fostered British control in India, they were not direct catalysts for the soldierly discontent that precipitated the 1857 rebellion.