The Indian Rebellion of 1857, known also as the Sepoy Mutiny or the Revolt of 1857, constituted a significant revolt against British rule. Originating as a mutiny of Indian soldiers (sepoys), it expanded to encompass various areas. V.D. Savarkar, in The First War of Indian Independence, initially characterized the event as a war for independence, distinguishing it from a mere military uprising. This view impacted subsequent independence activists and nationalist campaigns within India.