Who had opined that the Revolt of 1857 was a 'Sepoy Mutiny'?

The correct answer is T. R. Holmes.

Key Points

• T. R. Holmes was a British historian who characterized the Revolt of 1857 as a 'Sepoy Mutiny.'
• He emphasized the role of Indian soldiers (sepoys) in initiating the revolt and downplayed its broader social and political aspects.
• Holmes viewed the uprising as a military rebellion rather than a nationalist or popular movement.
• This perspective reflected the contemporary British colonial view, which sought to minimize the significance of the revolt as an independence struggle.
• Historians later criticized this interpretation for its narrow focus and lack of acknowledgment of the widespread discontent among Indian civilians.

Additional Information

• The Revolt of 1857:
  • Also known as the First War of Indian Independence, it began as a mutiny of sepoys in the British East India Company's army.
  • The revolt was triggered by multiple factors, including resentment towards British policies, economic exploitation, and cultural interference.
  • Key centers of the revolt included Meerut, Delhi, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Jhansi.
• Other Perspectives on the Revolt:
  • Indian leaders like V. D. Savarkar described it as a nationwide struggle for independence.
  • Historians such as R. C. Majumdar and S. N. Sen emphasized its significance as a precursor to later nationalist movements.
• Key Leaders of the Revolt:
  • Important figures included Bahadur Shah Zafar (Delhi), Nana Sahib (Kanpur), Rani Lakshmibai (Jhansi), and Tantia Tope.
  • The revolt united various sections of Indian society, including peasants, nobles, and soldiers, against British rule.
• Outcome of the Revolt:
  • The revolt was eventually suppressed by the British, but it led to significant changes in governance.
  • The British Crown took direct control of India from the East India Company in 1858, marking the beginning of the British Raj.