Question

“The similarities in the pattern of revolt of 1857 in different places lay partly in its planning and coordination.” Explain the statement.

Answer 1

The evidence implies that the rebels planned and coordinated their efforts, as indicated by:

1. Communication between sepoy lines in different cantons. For example, when the 7th Awadh Irregular Cavalry declined to utilize new cartridges, they communicated with the 48th Native Infantry, signaling that they acted on principles and were awaiting additional instructions. Sepoys or their representatives traveled from one station to the next to deliver messages.
2. Mutinies were planned, as evidenced by the protection given to Captain Hearsey by his Indian subordinates. The creation of a panchayat, consisting of an officer from each regiment to adjudicate the matter, demonstrates the level of organization. Ball also said that nocturnal panchayats were observed in the Kanpur sepoy lines.