Indian rebels seize Delhi from the British.

The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, was a major uprising against the rule of the British East India Company in India. The rebellion began in May 1857 when Indian soldiers, called sepoys, in the British army refused to use rifle cartridges rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat, which offended both Hindu and Muslim religious beliefs. The revolt first broke out in Meerut and quickly spread to cities such as Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow. Many Indians, including soldiers, rulers, and peasants, joined the rebellion due to growing resentment against British policies, heavy taxation, and interference in local traditions and governance.

The rebellion soon turned into a widespread challenge to British authority in India. Rebel leaders included figures such as Rani Lakshmibai, Bahadur Shah II, and Nana Sahib, who became symbols of resistance. Fierce battles were fought across northern and central India, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. Although the rebels showed courage and determination, they lacked unity, modern weapons, and coordinated leadership, which weakened their efforts against the better-equipped British forces.

By 1858, the British had successfully suppressed the rebellion, but the event had a lasting impact on Indian history. The British government dissolved the East India Company and took direct control of India under the British Crown, marking the beginning of the British Raj. The rebellion also changed British policies toward Indians, leading to reforms in the army and administration. Even though the uprising failed to end British rule, it inspired future generations of Indian nationalists and is remembered as an important step in India’s struggle for independence.