The correct answer is: a) Sikh soldiers remained loyal to the British.
The Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857, was a major uprising in India against the rule of the British East India Company. The revolt began in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, on 10 May 1857, and spread to other parts of India. The rebels were defeated by the British in 1858, but the revolt had a profound impact on British rule in India.
The revolt had limited support in Punjab mainly because the Sikh soldiers remained loyal to the British. The Sikhs were a powerful warrior caste who had fought against the British in the past, but they had been defeated and had since come to terms with British rule. The Sikhs were also grateful to the British for their support in the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848-1849), in which the British had helped the Sikhs to defeat the Afghans.
The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:
- Option b) is incorrect because the people of Punjab were not content with British rule. The British had imposed a number of taxes and restrictions on the people of Punjab, which had led to resentment.
- Option c) is incorrect because there was no widespread fear of reprisals among the people of Punjab. The British had a strong military presence in Punjab, and they were able to suppress any uprisings quickly.
- Option d) is incorrect because there were a number of strong leaders who emerged during the Revolt of 1857. However, these leaders were unable to unite the rebels and coordinate their efforts.