The Great Revolt of 1857

The Great Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny or Sepoy Rebellion, was a major uprising against British rule in India. It began when Indian soldiers (sepoys) in the British East India Company's army rebelled due to grievances over cultural insensitivity and new gun cartridge ingredients believed to be contaminated with animal fat, offending Hindu and Muslim beliefs. The revolt spread across northern India, uniting diverse groups against British authority. Although it was eventually suppressed, it marked a significant turning point, ending the rule of the East India Company and leading to direct control of India by the British Crown.