Revolt Of 1857 - Consequences 132s47

Revolt of 1857 Consequences The First War of Independence resulted in significant changes in the policies of the British government of India. The Revolt of 1857 had far - reaching political, military, social and economic results. Political: The istration of India now ed from the English East India Company to the British crown by the Government of India Act, 1858. A Secretary of State of India was appointed in England. He was to be assisted by a 15 - member advisory council. The Queen’s Proclamation also promised to discontinue the practice of annexation, and recognise adoption. Religious freedom was also assured. The proclamation also assured political reforms which were fulfilled to some extent by the 1861 Councils Act. Military: The military istration was strengthened. The number of European troops was increased and all artillery units were placed in European hands. The different classes of sepoys were mixed. All important posts in the army were reserved for the English. Social: The English felt that their social reforms were a cause for the Revolt. So they began to tread cautiously in this regard. They also started encouraging such social conservatives against nationalists during the freedom movement. It also increased racial bitterness between the English and Indians. Economic: The Revolt also brought massive economic destruction. Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur were completely destroyed. The public debt of the country rose by about 98 million sterling. Other impact: A positive aspect of the Revolt was that it laid the foundation for the later nationalist movement. The Revolt was a beacon for the later nationalist leaders. The exploits of the Revolt leaders inspired them to take on the mighty British Empire.