The revolt of 1857 was a major anti colonial movement and uprising against the British in India. The revolt was started when East India Company’s Indian soldiers rebelled against them in Meerut. Although the East India company managed to successfully suppress the revolt, it dealt a major blow to the British administration in India. It lead to widespread changes in the structure and policies of the British.

TRANFER OF POWER

The Government of India Act was passed in 1858, which transferred the power to govern India from the East India Company to the British Crown.

The authority of governing India was transferred from the Directors of the company to a Secretary of State for India who would be aided by a council.

CHANGES IN MILITARY

The proportion of European soldiers to Indian soldiers was increased drastically. Also important military positions artillery and weapons was placed in European hands.

DECENTRALISATION

The Act of 1861 established that legislative councils similar to that in the Centre be established first in the three major presidencies – Bombay, Madras and Bengal followed by other provinces.

Local government was also promoted through municipalities. This was done to avoid recurrent financial difficulties.

PRINCELY STATES

The Doctrine of Lapse was abandoned and rulers of the princely states were allowed to adopt their heirs.

This was done to reward the rulers who had stayed loyal to the British Empire even during the revolt.

CONCLUSION

Although the revolt of 1857 failed to achieve its objectives, it led to significant changes and ignited a fire of nationalism and unity among Indians which would inspire future Indian Independence struggles.