The correct answer is: All of the above.
The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the Sepoy Mutiny, or the First War of Indian Independence, was a major uprising in India in 1857 against the rule of the British East India Company. The revolt began on 10 May 1857 at Meerut, and quickly spread to other parts of northern India. The rebels were motivated by a variety of factors, including economic exploitation, British disrespect for Indian religious traditions, and the introduction of the Enfield rifle with greased cartridges.
Economic exploitation of Indian peasants was a major cause of the revolt. The British East India Company had established a system of land revenue collection that was highly oppressive. The company extracted a large share of the agricultural produce from the peasants, leaving them with little to live on. This led to widespread poverty and resentment among the peasantry.
British disrespect for Indian religious traditions was another major cause of the revolt. The British often interfered in Hindu and Muslim religious practices, which was seen as a desecration of these religions. This led to anger and resentment among many Indians.
The introduction of the Enfield rifle with greased cartridges was the immediate cause of the revolt. The cartridges were greased with a mixture of animal fat, including cow and pig fat. This was seen as a desecration of both Hindu and Muslim religious beliefs, as cows are sacred to Hindus and pigs are unclean to Muslims. Many Indian soldiers refused to use the cartridges, and this led to their arrest and execution. This sparked the revolt, which quickly spread to other parts of India.
The Revolt of 1857 was a major turning point in the history of India. It led to the end of the rule of the British East India Company, and the establishment of direct British rule over India. The revolt also had a profound impact on Indian society and culture. It led to a greater sense of Indian nationalism, and a desire for independence from British rule.