Question

Why did Awadh become one of the major centres of Revolt of 1857? Explain.

Answer 1

1. A series of complaints that connected many facets of society led to Awadh being a key hub of the Revolt of 1857. The social order was upset by the British annexation, which not only drove out the Nawab but also dispossessed the influential taluqdars. The southern taluqdars were particularly heavily impacted by the British Summary Settlement of 1856, which reduced their dominance over Awadh's villages from 67% to 38%.
2. Due to the disruption of traditional ties of loyalty caused by the taluqdars' dispossession, peasants were left vulnerable to exploitative British revenue schemes without the taluqdars' prior endorsement and consideration. Particularly in regions like Awadh, taluqdars and peasants banded together to resist British authority as a result of the dissolution of established power structures and exploitation.