Question 10 of 22intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer3 marks

Why do you think was the term 'Sepoy Mutiny' rejected after Indian Independence? Write one paragraph explaining your reasons.

Correct Answer

The term 'Sepoy Mutiny' was rejected after Indian Independence because it was a colonial British label that deliberately minimized the significance and scope of the 1857 uprising. The word 'mutiny' suggests a limited military rebellion by disobedient soldiers, ignoring the widespread participation of civilians, princes, and various communities across northern and central India.

The British used this term to portray the event as an illegitimate revolt by ungrateful sepoys rather than a legitimate struggle against foreign domination. After Independence, Indian historians recognized that the event was a major anti-colonial uprising involving diverse sections of society — not just sepoys but also peasants, artisans, landlords, and rulers who were united in opposing British rule.

The term 'Great Rebellion of 1857' or 'First War of Indian Independence' better captures the nationalist and anti-colonial character of the uprising, which marked a turning point in sowing the idea that foreign domination was unacceptable.

Exercise: LET'S EXPLORE | Q: 15 | (Page Page 26)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The chapter explains in 'THE GREAT REBELLION OF 1857': 'The British called it the 'Sepoy Mutiny.' ... After India's Independence, historians rejected the term 'Sepoy Mutiny', proposing a few others instead; following many scholars, we will call the event the 'Great Rebellion of 1857.'' The chapter describes how the revolt spread across northern and central India with sepoys capturing key cities, and notes that 'The uprising failed, but it marked a turning point, especially in sowing a seed for the idea that foreign domination was unacceptable.'

Solution Steps

  1. The term 'Sepoy Mutiny' was a colonial British label that deliberately minimized the significance of the 1857 uprising

  2. The word 'mutiny' suggests a limited military rebellion, ignoring widespread civilian participation across northern and central India

  3. British used the term to portray the event as an illegitimate revolt rather than a legitimate struggle against foreign domination

  4. Indian historians recognized the event as a major anti-colonial uprising involving peasants, artisans, landlords, and rulers

  5. Alternative terms like 'Great Rebellion of 1857' or 'First War of Indian Independence' better capture the nationalist character of the uprising

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