Short-term causes:
- The introduction of the Enfield rifle: The British introduced a new rifle, the Enfield, which required soldiers to bite off the end of the cartridge paper before loading. The grease used to lubricate the cartridges was rumored to be made from pig and cow fat, which was offensive to both Hindu and Muslim sepoys.
- The annexation of Oudh: In 1856, the British annexed the kingdom of Oudh, further alienating the sepoys, many of whom came from Oudh.
- The General Service Enlistment Act of 1856: This act allowed Indian soldiers to be deployed overseas, which was against the traditional understanding of their service.
Long-term causes:
- Economic exploitation: The British colonial rule in India led to the economic exploitation of the country and its people. This resulted in widespread poverty and resentment among the Indian population, including the sepoys.
- Social and cultural discrimination: The British held racist attitudes towards Indians and treated them as inferior. This led to social and cultural discrimination, which further alienated the sepoys.
- Political grievances: The British rulers implemented unpopular policies and disregarded the political and administrative rights of the sepoys.
- Desire for independence: Many Indians, including the sepoys, resented the foreign rule and aspired to gain independence from the British. This desire for self-rule contributed to the outbreak of the mutiny.
In summary, the Sepoy Mutiny was caused by a combination of short-term triggers, such as religious concerns and grievances surrounding the Enfield rifle cartridges, as well as long-standing economic, social, cultural, and political factors that fueled discontent among the Indian population, including the sepoys. These factors culminated in a widespread rebellion against British colonial rule in India