Indian Rebellion of 1857

The Indian Rebellion of 1857 was a major, but unsuccessful, revolt against the British East India Company, who ruled over India on behalf of the British crown. It started with a mutiny of a group of Indian infantry men that then erupted into several other mutinies and civilian rebellions. The revolt grew out of resentment for British social reforms, harsh taxes, and skepticism about British “improvements”. Many Indians rebelled but many also fought for the British, while the majority were compliant with the rule. Cruel violence was inflicted by both sides, towards officers and civilians. The rebels were officially defeated on June 20, 1858 and rebels not involved in the violence were granted amnesty.