Question

The 1857 Revolt is also referred to as the Sepoy Mutiny by the British. With reference to the role played by the soldiers, answer the following question:

Why were soldiers unhappy with it?

Answer 1

1. They were angered by the new Enfield rifle cartridges rumoured to be greased with cow and pig fat, which offended both Hindu and Muslim religious beliefs (and came on top of bans on caste marks, beards and turbans).
2. They also resented military grievances: low pay, poor prospects of promotion, racial discrimination and harsh treatment, and the General Service Enlistment Act (1856), which could force them to serve overseas.