(125 very important MCQs from previous years questions)
STANDARD MCQs
Q1. The immediate trigger of the Revolt of 1857 was:
A. Annexation of Awadh
B. Heavy taxation
C. Introduction of Enfield rifle cartridges
D. Police reforms
Answer: C
Explanation: The animal-fat–greased cartridges insulted both Hindu and Muslim religious sentiments, causing sepoy anger.
Q2. The Revolt of 1857 began at:
A. Delhi
B. Lucknow
C. Meerut
D. Kanpur
Answer: C
Explanation: On 10 May 1857, sepoys at Meerut rose in rebellion and marched to Delhi.
Q3. Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared the rebel emperor at:
A. Patna
B. Delhi
C. Jhansi
D. Agra
Answer: B
Explanation: Rebel sepoys reached Delhi and proclaimed him the symbolic leader of Hindustan.
Q4. Rani Lakshmi Bai’s conflict with the British began due to:
A. Increased revenue
B. Annexation under Doctrine of Lapse
C. Missionary conversions
D. Military reforms
Answer: B
Explanation: Lord Dalhousie annexed Jhansi because she had no natural male heir — a key cause for her joining the revolt.
Q5. Who led the revolt in Kanpur?
A. Begum Hazrat Mahal
B. Nana Saheb
C. Kunwar Singh
D. Bakht Khan
Answer: B
Explanation: Nana Saheb expelled the British from Kanpur and declared himself Peshwa.
Q6. Bakht Khan led the rebel forces in:
A. Jhansi
B. Delhi
C. Gwalior
D. Faizabad
Answer: B
Explanation: He organized the insurgents in Delhi and acted as their commander-in-chief.
Q7. The region that remained MOST loyal to the British during 1857 was:
A. Awadh
B. Punjab
C. Bihar
D. Bundelkhand
Answer: B
Explanation: Sikhs, Pathans, and Punjabi chiefs largely supported the British due to benefits after annexation of Punjab.
Q8. The Queen’s Proclamation of 1858 promised:
A. More annexations
B. Religious freedom
C. Increase in land tax
D. End of princely states
Answer: B
Explanation: The proclamation assured non-interference in Indian religions to calm public anger.
Q9. After 1857, British recruited heavily from:
A. Brahmins of Awadh
B. Bengalis
C. “Martial races” like Sikhs and Gurkhas
D. South Indian Brahmins
Answer: C
Explanation: “Divide and rule” policy; they avoided recruiting groups who rebelled.
Q10. Who was popularly known as the ‘Maulvi of Faizabad’?
A. Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah
B. Maulvi Hanif
C. Maulvi Karimuddin
D. Shaikh Abdullah
Answer: A
Explanation: A charismatic rebel leader, widely respected among Muslims and Hindus.
Q11. The taluqdars of Awadh supported the revolt because:
A. They wanted missionary schools
B. They lost estates under British revenue settlement
C. They gained from British rule
D. They disliked Bahadur Shah Zafar
Answer: B
Explanation: British removed many taluqdars, destroying their authority and income.
Q12. The British labelled the 1857 uprising as a “sepoy mutiny” to:
A. Justify economic reforms
B. Hide its widespread support
C. Praise Indian soldiers
D. Promote independence
Answer: B
Explanation: They downplayed civilian, peasant, princely, and landlord participation.
Q13. Kunwar Singh was the leader of the revolt in:
A. Punjab
B. Bihar
C. Rajasthan
D. Bengal
Answer: B
Explanation: The aged zamindar of Jagdishpur led one of the strongest revolts in Bihar.
Q14. The MAIN reason for peasant anger in 1857 was:
A. Middlemen
B. Harsh land revenue demands
C. Lack of irrigation
D. Ban on fairs and festivals
Answer: B
Explanation: British revenue systems overburdened peasants, causing widespread discontent.
Q15. The rifle at the centre of the 1857 controversy was the:
A. Flintlock rifle
B. Enfield rifle
C. Lee-Enfield 1914
D. Matchlock gun
Answer: B
Explanation: Its greased cartridges provoked religious outrage.
Q16. Which document explained the rebels’ aims and sought Hindu-Muslim unity?
A. Delhi Manifesto
B. Azamgarh Proclamation
C. Queen’s Proclamation
D. Pitt’s India Act
Answer: B
Explanation: It promised rights of zamindars, peasants, and nobles, calling for joint resistance.
Q17. Tantia Tope was closely associated with:
A. Begum Hazrat Mahal
B. Nana Saheb
C. Bahadur Shah Zafar
D. Kunwar Singh
Answer: B
Explanation: He was Nana Saheb’s trusted general and brilliant guerrilla fighter.
Q18. Mangal Pandey was a sepoy at:
A. Meerut
B. Jhansi
C. Barrackpore
D. Kanpur
Answer: C
Explanation: His attack on a British officer became an early signal of rebellion.
Q19. The revolt was strongest in which region?
A. Awadh
B. Punjab
C. Bengal
D. Mysore
Answer: A
Explanation: Awadh saw joint action by taluqdars, peasants, sepoys, and townspeople.
Q20. After the 1857 revolt, the British:
A. Resumed annexations
B. Strengthened princely states
C. Abolished Zamindari
D. Closed Indian courts
Answer: B
Explanation: They used princes as allies to prevent future rebellions.
Q21. The last major rebel to be captured, marking the final suppression of the revolt, was:
A. Rani Lakshmi Bai
B. Kunwar Singh
C. Tantia Tope
D. Bakht Khan
Answer: C
Explanation: His capture in 1859 formally ended large-scale resistance.
Q22. British increased the number of European soldiers after 1857 because:
A. It was cheaper
B. They wanted stronger control
C. Indians refused to join
D. They planned to leave India
Answer: B
Explanation: Fear of another rebellion led to increasing European ratio in the army.
Q23. The policy allowing annexation of states without natural heirs was called:
A. Subsidiary Alliance
B. Doctrine of Lapse
C. Permanent Settlement
D. Mahalwari system
Answer: B
Explanation: Introduced by Dalhousie; widely resented by Indian rulers.
Q24. Who led the rebellion in Lucknow?
A. Begum Hazrat Mahal
B. Nana Saheb
C. Lakshmi Bai
D. Bakht Khan
Answer: A
Explanation: She proclaimed her son as Nawab and led resistance in Awadh.
Q25. Tribal groups strongly participated in the revolt mainly in:
A. Rajasthan
B. Chotanagpur region
C. Madras Presidency
D. Mysore
Answer: B
Explanation: Tribals resisted British forest policies and aligned with rebels.
Assertion–Reason MCQs
Each question follows CBSE format:
(A) Both A and R are true & R is correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
Q1.
Assertion (A): The revolt of 1857 began at Meerut.
Reason (R): Indian soldiers at Meerut refused to use the new Enfield cartridges.
Answer: A
Explanation: The refusal to use greased cartridges at Meerut directly triggered the revolt; thus the reason correctly explains the assertion.
Q2.
Assertion (A): Bahadur Shah Zafar became the symbolic leader of the 1857 revolt.
Reason (R): Rebels needed a figure that could unify diverse groups under one authority.
Answer: A
Explanation: Rebels projected the Mughal emperor as a unifying figure, making R a correct explanation.
Q3.
Assertion (A): The British annexed Awadh in 1856.
Reason (R): They justified it on the grounds of “misgovernment.”
Answer: A
Explanation: Annexation on the basis of alleged misrule is historically accurate.
Q4.
Assertion (A): The uprising spread rapidly across North India.
Reason (R): Telegraph lines helped rebels coordinate movements.
Answer: C
Explanation: Spread was due to widespread anger, not telegraph lines (used mainly by British).
Q5.
Assertion (A): The sepoys marched to Delhi after the uprising at Meerut.
Reason (R): Delhi housed the Mughal palace and symbolized past Indian sovereignty.
Answer: A
Explanation: Rebels moved to Delhi to rally support under the Mughal emperor.
Q6.
Assertion (A): The British executed large numbers of rebels after 1857.
Reason (R): They wanted to create fear and prevent future rebellions.
Answer: A
Explanation: Harsh reprisals were meant to crush resistance permanently.
Q7.
Assertion (A): The British described the 1857 revolt as a “Sepoy Mutiny.”
Reason (R): They wanted to downplay the participation of civilians.
Answer: A
Explanation: The term minimized its widespread nature.
Q8.
Assertion (A): Rani Lakshmibai fought fiercely to defend Jhansi.
Reason (R): The Doctrine of Lapse denied her adopted son the right to inherit the throne.
Answer: A
Explanation: Loss of her kingdom was the direct cause.
Q9.
Assertion (A): The British recaptured Delhi after long street fighting.
Reason (R): The city was heavily fortified and rebels fought from inside.
Answer: A
Explanation: The siege and recapture took months due to strong resistance.
Q10.
Assertion (A): The rebellion failed to spread to South India.
Reason (R): Many southern princely states supported the British.
Answer: B
Explanation: Both statements true but southern support did not fully explain limited spread.
Q11.
Assertion (A): Landlords supported the 1857 revolt in many regions.
Reason (R): The British had imposed high revenue demands threatening their estates.
Answer: A
Explanation: Economic pressure on taluqdars pushed them to join the rebellion.
Q12.
Assertion (A): The 1857 rebellion witnessed unity among people of different communities.
Reason (R): Rebels issued proclamations that respected all religions.
Answer: A
Explanation: Religious unity was encouraged to avoid division.
Q13.
Assertion (A): The canal irrigation system caused resentment among the peasants.
Reason (R): They had to pay higher water rates and follow new cropping patterns.
Answer: A
Explanation: British agrarian policies created economic hardship.
Q14.
Assertion (A): British forces faced difficulty in capturing Kanpur.
Reason (R): Nana Saheb and his troops offered strong resistance.
Answer: A
Explanation: Kanpur was a major rebel center under Nana Saheb.
Q15.
Assertion (A): The British made major administrative changes after 1857.
Reason (R): They wanted to avoid policies that could cause future revolts.
Answer: A
Explanation: Post-1857 reforms aimed at stability and control.
Q16.
Assertion (A): The Company’s army composition changed drastically after 1857.
Reason (R): The British increased the number of European soldiers for security.
Answer: A
Explanation: European-to-Indian soldier ratio was increased for control.
Q17.
Assertion (A): The taluqdars of Awadh initially benefited from British rule.
Reason (R): They were granted higher rights over land after annexation.
Answer: D
Explanation: A is false—taluqdars LOST rights; R is also false.
Q18.
Assertion (A): The British deliberately destroyed Mughal cultural symbols.
Reason (R): They wanted to erase memories of the old empire.
Answer: A
Explanation: After 1857, Mughal heritage faced systematic dismantling.
Q19.
Assertion (A): Many towns were severely damaged during the revolt.
Reason (R): Street-to-street battles and bombardment occurred in major cities.
Answer: A
Explanation: Places like Lucknow and Delhi saw extreme destruction.
Q20.
Assertion (A): The British feared another uprising after 1857.
Reason (R): They reorganized the police and army to strengthen surveillance.
Answer: A
Explanation: Fear of future unrest triggered military and administrative reforms.
Q21.
Assertion (A): The British promoted the idea that 1857 was a failure of discipline.
Reason (R): They wanted to blame only the sepoys and justify stricter military rules.
Answer: A
Explanation: This narrative helped them tighten control inside the army.
Q22.
Assertion (A): Rebels used proclamations to communicate their goals.
Reason (R): Many rebels were illiterate and depended on oral communication.
Answer: B
Explanation: Both true, but proclamations were written for literate leaders, not because rebels were illiterate.
Q23.
Assertion (A): Many Indian rulers remained neutral during the revolt.
Reason (R): They feared British retaliation and loss of privileges.
Answer: A
Explanation: Loyalty to British ensured princely states kept their authority.
Q24.
Assertion (A): British officials prepared detailed reports after suppressing the revolt.
Reason (R): They wanted to understand its causes and prevent recurrence.
Answer: A
Explanation: Many inquiry committees and reports were produced.
Q25.
Assertion (A): The revolt failed to achieve complete coordination among rebel leaders.
Reason (R): Most leaders fought independently without a unified plan.
Answer: A
Explanation: Lack of central leadership was a major weakness.
Statement-Based MCQs
Q1. Which of the following statements about the Revolt of 1857 is/are correct?
- It began in Meerut.
- It quickly spread to South India.
- It was triggered partly by the cartridge issue.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 3
D. Only 3
Answer: C
Explanation: Revolt began at Meerut and cartridge issue triggered it; South India did not see widespread revolt.
Q2. Identify the correct statements about Bahadur Shah Zafar.
- He was declared the leader by the rebels.
- He actively commanded rebel armies across India.
- His name was used to issue proclamations.
Options:
A. 1 and 3
B. Only 2
C. 1 and 2
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: He symbolically led the revolt but did not personally command armies.
Q3. Which of the following statements about Awadh are true?
- Awadh was annexed in 1856.
- The Doctrine of Lapse was applied to Awadh.
- Its annexation angered taluqdars.
Options:
A. 1 and 3
B. 2 and 3
C. All 1, 2, 3
D. Only 1
Answer: A
Explanation: Awadh was annexed for “misgovernment,” not under Doctrine of Lapse.
Q4. Consider the following statements about the causes of the revolt:
- High land revenue created rural distress.
- New administration reduced the powers of taluqdars.
- Indian rulers welcomed British reforms wholeheartedly.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 1 and 3
D. 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Most rulers resisted reforms; economic distress and loss of power were key causes.
Q5. Which statements are correct about Rani Lakshmibai?
- She fought at Jhansi and Gwalior.
- She accepted the Doctrine of Lapse peacefully.
- She became one of the most prominent rebel leaders.
Options:
A. 1 and 3
B. 1 and 2
C. Only 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: She resisted the Doctrine of Lapse and fought bravely at two key centers.
Q6. Which statements describe British actions after 1857?
- The rule of the Company ended.
- The Governor-General became the Viceroy.
- Mughal emperor was reinstated.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. Only 1
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Explanation: Mughal dynasty was abolished, not reinstated.
Q7. Identify correct statements about the sepoy rebellion:
- Sepoys refused to use greased cartridges.
- Many Indian sepoys retired voluntarily after 1857.
- The Bengal Army had many high-caste recruits.
Options:
A. 1 and 3
B. Only 2
C. 2 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Many were dismissed or executed, not voluntarily retired.
Q8. Which statements about the rebels’ use of proclamations are true?
- They invoked the blessings of Mughal authority.
- They emphasized Hindu–Muslim unity.
- They promised to uphold British taxation policies.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 2
C. All 1, 2, 3
D. Only 1
Answer: A
Explanation: Rebels rejected British taxation, promoting unity and Mughal legitimacy.
Q9. Which statements describe British military changes after 1857?
- Ratio of Indian to European soldiers was altered.
- Artillery was placed under Indian control.
- Recruitment shifted to loyal communities.
Options:
A. 1 and 3
B. Only 1
C. 1 and 2
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Artillery remained under British control.
Q10. Identify true statements regarding the participation of rural groups:
- Peasants joined the revolt due to revenue hikes.
- Taluqdars supported the rebels to regain lost power.
- Peasants opposed taluqdars during the revolt.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. Only 1
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Peasants and taluqdars often cooperated against the British.
Q11. Which of the following statements are correct?
- Rebel leaders coordinated a national plan of action.
- The revolt remained localized in many regions.
- Communication difficulties hindered unity.
Options:
A. 2 and 3
B. Only 1
C. 1 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: There was no national coordination.
Q12. Which statements relate to cities affected by the revolt?
- Delhi faced widespread destruction.
- Lucknow witnessed intense street fighting.
- Calcutta was the epicenter of the revolt.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 1
C. 2 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Calcutta remained peaceful.
Q13. Which statements about British historians’ interpretation are correct?
- They called it a mutiny to belittle it.
- They claimed it started due to military indiscipline.
- They emphasized widespread people’s participation.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 1 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: They denied mass participation.
Q14. Which statements correctly describe rebel leadership?
- Nana Saheb led the revolt in Kanpur.
- Kunwar Singh was a leader in Bihar.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal played a role in Awadh.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 1 and 3
C. All 1, 2, 3
D. Only 2
Answer: C
Explanation: All were important regional leaders.
Q15. Which statements are true about the causes of distrust among soldiers?
- Loss of allowances due to overseas service rule.
- Rumors about greased cartridges.
- Reward system introduced for loyal soldiers.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 2 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Rewards were minimal and did not reduce discontent.
Q16. Which statements describe British reprisals after 1857?
- Public hangings were common.
- Villages suspected of rebellion were burnt.
- Tax remission was increased for farmers.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 1 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: British punishments were extremely harsh, not lenient.
Q17. Which statements about British policies post-1857 are correct?
- Queen’s Proclamation assured non-interference in religion.
- Princely states’ rights were protected.
- Doctrine of Lapse was reintroduced.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 1 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Doctrine of Lapse was abolished.
Q18. Which statements describe rebel objectives?
- Restore Mughal authority.
- End British rule.
- Establish a constitutional monarchy.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. Only 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Rebels aimed to restore old order, not modern democracy.
Q19. Which statements about British intelligence works are true?
- Spies collected information on rebel leaders.
- Reports were compiled after the revolt.
- Intelligence officers encouraged local rebellions.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 2 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: British sought to suppress rebellions, not encourage them.
Q20. Identify correct statements about visual records of 1857.
- British artists painted rebels as violent.
- Pictures were used to justify British retaliation.
- Indian artists depicted rebels only as villains.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 1
C. Only 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Indian depictions varied; British art was strongly biased.
Q21. Which statements about Kanpur events are true?
- Nana Saheb declared himself Peshwa.
- Kanpur came under rebel control.
- The British retreated to Allahabad.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. All 1, 2, 3
D. Only 2
Answer: C
Explanation: All events accurately describe Kanpur during the revolt.
Q22. Which statements are true about rebel unity?
- Hindus and Muslims fought together.
- Rebels issued secular proclamations.
- Caste divisions completely disappeared.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. All 1, 2, 3
D. 1 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Unity was strong but caste divisions did not fully vanish.
Q23. Which statements about the British response to Awadh are correct?
- Harsh punishments were inflicted on rebels.
- Land settlements favored loyal taluqdars.
- Mughal rule was restored temporarily.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. 1 and 3
C. Only 2
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Mughals were never restored.
Q24. Which statements describe the end of Mughal rule?
- Bahadur Shah Zafar was exiled to Burma.
- Red Fort was cleared of Mughal symbols.
- The Mughal family received pensions for rebuilding Delhi.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 2 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Mughals received no support; symbols were removed.
Q25. Which statements describe reasons for rebellion’s failure?
- Lack of central leadership.
- Superior British military technology.
- Perfect coordination among rebel leaders.
Options:
A. 1 and 2
B. Only 3
C. 1 and 3
D. All 1, 2, 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Rebels did NOT coordinate perfectly; British had unified command.
CASE-BASED / SOURCE-BASED MCQs
PASSAGE 1: The Greased Cartridge Incident
“The new Enfield rifle required soldiers to bite the cartridge before loading.
Rumours spread rapidly that the grease used was made of cow and pig fat.
The belief that the government sought to defile both Hindu and Muslim religions created deep mistrust.”
Q1. Why did the cartridge issue become so explosive?
A. It increased soldier salaries
B. It was seen as an attack on religious beliefs
C. It improved accuracy of rifles
D. It was supported by Indian sepoys
Answer: B
Explanation: The rumor suggested deliberate violation of religious purity.
Q2. Which community felt defiled by pig fat?
A. Hindus
B. Sikhs
C. Muslims
D. Parsis
Answer: C
Explanation: Pig fat is forbidden in Islam.
PASSAGE 2: Taluqdars’ Grievances
“In Awadh, the British removed the taluqdars from revenue collection.
This shattered their power and influence.
When the revolt broke out, many taluqdars supported the rebels, hoping to regain lost authority.”
Q3. Why did taluqdars join the revolt?
A. To support British reforms
B. To protect missionary activities
C. To regain lost land and power
D. To expand their territories abroad
Answer: C
Explanation: Annexation weakened taluqdars, motivating them to support rebellion.
Q4. What was a major British change in Awadh before 1857?
A. Increase in military posts for Indians
B. Removal of taluqdars from their estates
C. Creation of new Mughal laws
D. Abolition of revenue collection
Answer: B
Explanation: British replaced taluqdars with new revenue arrangements.
PASSAGE 3: The Proclamation of 1857
“Rebel proclamations appealed to both Hindus and Muslims.
They described the British as destroyers of religion.
The proclamations emphasized unity and restoration of traditional authority under the Mughal emperor.”
Q5. What was the primary aim of rebel proclamations?
A. Promote British legal reforms
B. Encourage division among communities
C. Unite Indians against the British
D. Support European settlers
Answer: C
Explanation: Emphasis was on Hindu–Muslim unity.
Q6. Who did the rebels recognize as their symbolic leader?
A. Nana Saheb
B. Rani Lakshmibai
C. Bahadur Shah Zafar
D. Begum Hazrat Mahal
Answer: C
Explanation: Rebels proclaimed Zafar as Emperor of India.
PASSAGE 4: British Counter-Narratives
“British newspapers and artists portrayed the rebels as violent murderers.
Such images helped justify harsh retribution by the British army.
Indian experiences, however, were less represented.”
Q7. What was the role of British media during the revolt?
A. To support rebel claims
B. To justify British suppression
C. To promote neutrality
D. To praise rebel bravery
Answer: B
Explanation: Media created an image of rebels as brutal.
Q8. British visual sources often showed rebels as —
A. Heroes
B. Liberators
C. Barbarians
D. Saints
Answer: C
Explanation: Rebels were depicted as savages to rationalize British repression.
PASSAGE 5: Bahadur Shah Zafar’s Trial
“After the fall of Delhi, Zafar was captured and put on trial.
He was accused of treason and complicity in rebellion.
The British exiled him to Rangoon, ending the Mughal dynasty.”
Q9. Where was Bahadur Shah Zafar exiled?
A. Hyderabad
B. Rangoon
C. Karachi
D. Singapore
Answer: B
Explanation: His exile ended Mughal rule.
Q10. What did the trial signify?
A. Mughal authority was strengthened
B. Beginning of Mughal revival
C. Final collapse of Mughal rule
D. Expansion of Mughal empire
Answer: C
Explanation: Trial was symbolic of the end of the dynasty.
PASSAGE 6: Peasant Participation
“Peasants in Awadh suffered due to high revenue demands.
Many joined the revolt hoping to restore earlier protection under taluqdars.
Rebel villages became centers of local resistance.”
Q11. Why did peasants join the revolt?
A. To end all agricultural work
B. Because revenue demand was reduced
C. Due to heavy taxation and loss of protection
D. Because they supported British policies
Answer: C
Explanation: Harsh revenue policies forced peasants toward rebellion.
Q12. Which group traditionally protected peasants before British rule?
A. Missionaries
B. Taluqdars
C. Europeans
D. Merchants
Answer: B
Explanation: Taluqdars acted as intermediaries and protectors.
PASSAGE 7: Delhi as the Rebel Capital
“Delhi became the focal point of the revolt.
The Red Fort housed rebel administration.
However, lack of coordination and supplies weakened their control.”
Q13. Why was Delhi important to rebels?
A. It was a major British naval base
B. It symbolized Mughal sovereignty
C. It was close to Calcutta
D. It had no political importance
Answer: B
Explanation: Controlling Delhi gave legitimacy to the rebellion.
Q14. What major problem did rebel forces face in Delhi?
A. Excess food supplies
B. Lack of coordinated leadership
C. Too much British support
D. Abundant modern weapons
Answer: B
Explanation: Rebels struggled to maintain unified command.
PASSAGE 8: British Military Reforms After 1857
“After 1857, the British reorganized their army.
Artillery was kept under British control, and the ratio of Indian to European soldiers was changed.
Recruitment shifted to ‘loyal’ groups like Sikhs and Gurkhas.”
Q15. Who controlled artillery after the revolt?
A. Indian sepoys
B. Indian princes
C. British soldiers
D. Local landlords
Answer: C
Explanation: British maintained tight control over heavy weaponry.
Q16. Recruitment after 1857 favored —
A. Regions that rebelled the most
B. Communities considered loyal
C. Only Brahmins
D. Only Muslims
Answer: B
Explanation: British trusted groups that remained loyal.
PASSAGE 9: Nana Saheb at Kanpur
“Nana Saheb, the adopted son of Peshwa Baji Rao II, became a leading figure at Kanpur.
He expelled the British and proclaimed himself Peshwa with rebel support.”
Q17. Nana Saheb’s claim to Peshwaship was rejected due to —
A. Charter Act of 1813
B. Doctrine of Lapse
C. Subsidiary Alliance
D. Ryotwari system
Answer: B
Explanation: British refused to recognize adopted heirs.
Q18. The center of his activities was —
A. Lucknow
B. Kanpur
C. Delhi
D. Patna
Answer: B
Explanation: He led rebel forces in Kanpur.
PASSAGE 10: British Reprisals
“British forces used extreme violence in suppressing the revolt.
Villages suspected of assisting rebels were burnt.
Suspects were executed publicly to create fear.”
Q19. What was a common British method of punishment?
A. Tax reduction
B. Army promotions
C. Village burning
D. Restoration of kingdoms
Answer: C
Explanation: Entire villages were razed as retaliation.
Q20. What was the purpose of public executions?
A. To encourage rebellion
B. To terrorize local population
C. To reward loyalists
D. To restore Mughal rule
Answer: B
Explanation: Public executions discouraged further resistance.
PASSAGE 11: Contemporary Writings
“Indian and British writings on 1857 differed sharply.
British accounts focused on rebel violence, whereas Indian writings emphasized patriotism and bravery.”
Q21. Why do interpretations differ?
A. Both sides used identical records
B. Each side wrote from its perspective
C. Only rebels wrote historical accounts
D. There were no primary sources
Answer: B
Explanation: Historians interpret events based on their viewpoint.
Q22. Indian writings portrayed rebels as —
A. Traitors
B. Cowards
C. Patriots
D. Foreigners
Answer: C
Explanation: Rebels were glorified as freedom fighters.
PASSAGE 12: Begum Hazrat Mahal
“Begum Hazrat Mahal took charge of Lucknow after the British fled.
She declared her son Birjis Qadr as the ruler and mobilized local support.”
Q23. Begum Hazrat Mahal ruled on behalf of —
A. Bahadur Shah Zafar
B. Nana Saheb
C. Birjis Qadr
D. Kunwar Singh
Answer: C
Explanation: She proclaimed her son as the Nawab.
Q24. In which region was she active?
A. Bengal
B. Awadh
C. Punjab
D. Bihar
Answer: B
Explanation: She was central to the Awadh uprising.
PASSAGE 13: Failure of Rebel Coordination
“Rebel groups lacked coordination.
Communication was difficult across long distances, and leaders acted independently.”
Q25. Which factor weakened the rebellion most?
A. Over-funding
B. Too many modern rifles
C. Lack of unified command
D. High European casualties
Answer: C
Explanation: No central strategy led to isolated defeats.
Match-the-Following MCQs
Q1. Match the following leaders with their regions of revolt:
A. Kunwar Singh
B. Nana Saheb
C. Rani Lakshmi Bai
D. Khan Bahadur Khan
- Jhansi
- Bareilly
- Bihar
- Kanpur
Options:
A. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
B. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
C. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
D. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
Answer: A
Explanation:
Kunwar Singh (Bihar), Nana Saheb (Kanpur), Rani Lakshmi Bai (Jhansi), Khan Bahadur Khan (Bareilly).
Q2. Match the following acts with their features:
A. Doctrine of Lapse
B. Subsidiary Alliance
C. Permanent Settlement
D. Ryotwari System
- Direct settlement with peasants
- Pension to rulers but no heirs allowed
- Company posts Resident + Indian ruler loses autonomy
- Fixed revenue demand
Options:
A. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
B. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
C. A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
D. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Doctrine of Lapse = No heir → takeover; Subsidiary alliance = Resident control; Permanent = fixed revenue; Ryotwari = direct settlement.
Q3. Match the following events with dates:
A. Capture of Delhi
B. Beginning of Revolt
C. Fall of Jhansi
D. Death of Kunwar Singh
- June 1857
- July 1857
- May 1858
- April 1858
Options:
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
C. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
D. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Delhi captured in June 1857, revolt began May 1857, Jhansi fell May 1858, Kunwar Singh died April 1858.
Q4. Match the following cities with roles in 1857:
A. Meerut
B. Delhi
C. Lucknow
D. Kanpur
- First uprising
- Seat of Mughal Emperor
- Centre of resistance by Begum Hazrat Mahal
- Headquarters of Nana Saheb
Options:
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
C. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Meerut started uprising; Delhi became symbolic centre; Lucknow led by Begum Hazrat Mahal; Kanpur by Nana Saheb.
Q5. Match the following groups with their grievances:
A. Sepoys
B. Peasants
C. Zamindars
D. Artisans
- Land revenue pressure
- Loss of customary rights, forced labor
- Fear of losing estates
- Low pay and greased cartridges
Options:
A. A-4, B-1, C-3, D-2
B. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
C. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
D. A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Sepoys → cartridge issue; Peasants → revenue burden; Zamindars → estate fear; Artisans → loss of livelihood.
Q6. Match the following British officers with their roles:
A. Henry Lawrence
B. John Nicholson
C. William Hodson
D. Colin Campbell
- Recaptured Lucknow
- Killed sons of Bahadur Shah II
- Defended Lucknow Residency
- Led assault on Delhi
Options:
A. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
B. A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C. A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Lawrence defended Lucknow; Nicholson led Delhi assault; Hodson shot princes; Campbell retook Lucknow.
Q7. Match the following:
A. Enfield rifle
B. Resident
C. Firangi
D. Mutiny
- Officer posted to Indian court
- Name for foreigners
- Rumor that cartridge had fat
- Rebellion by soldiers
Options:
A. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
B. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
C. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
D. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
Answer: A
Explanation:
Enfield rifle cartridges → fat rumor; Resident → advisor; Firangi = foreigner; Mutiny = sepoy rebellion.
Q8. Match the following rebel centres with leaders:
A. Awadh
B. Delhi
C. Jhansi
D. Kanpur
- Bahadur Shah II
- Rani Lakshmi Bai
- Nana Saheb / Tantia Tope
- Birjis Qadar / Begum Hazrat Mahal
Options:
A. A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
B. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
C. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
D. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Awadh → Hazrat Mahal, Delhi → Bahadur Shah, Jhansi → Rani, Kanpur → Nana Saheb.
Q9. Match the following types of sources with examples:
A. Official records
B. Mutiny narratives
C. Personal diaries
D. Surveys
- Kaye and Malleson
- Gazetteers
- District revenue reports
- Officer’s personal notes
Options:
A. A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
B. A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3
C. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
D. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Officials → revenue records; Mutiny narratives → Kaye & Malleson; Diaries → personal notes; Surveys → Gazetteers.
Q10. Match the following measures with outcomes:
A. Queen’s Proclamation (1858)
B. Army Reorganization
C. Land Policy Changes
D. Religious Neutrality
- No interference in religion
- No Indian dominance in army
- Estates restored
- Rule transferred to Crown
Options:
A. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
B. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
C. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
D. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Proclamation → Crown rule; Army → reduced Indian ratio; Land → estate restoration; Neutrality → no interference in religion.
Q11. Match the following rebel leaders with their actions:
A. Tantia Tope
B. Mangal Pandey
C. Bakht Khan
D. Ahmadullah Shah
- Led revolt in Bareilly
- Sparked mutiny at Barrackpore
- Proclaimed as “Maulvi of Faizabad”
- Military commander at Kanpur after Nana Saheb
Options:
A. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
B. A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
C. A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
D. A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Tantia Tope → Kanpur commander; Mangal Pandey → Barrackpore; Bakht Khan → Bareilly; Ahmadullah Shah → Maulvi of Faizabad.
Q12. Match the following British responses with outcomes:
A. Martial Law
B. Summary Executions
C. Villages Burnt
D. Confiscation of Property
- Immediate killing of suspected rebels
- Harsh military control
- Collective punishment
- Property of rebel-supporters seized
Options:
A. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
C. A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
D. A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
Answer: A
Explanation:
Martial Law = strict rule; Summary execution = killing; Burning villages = collective punishment; Confiscation = seizing property.
Q13. Match the following forts with their associations:
A. Lucknow Residency
B. Jhansi Fort
C. Red Fort
D. Kanpur Entrenchment
- Bahadur Shah’s court
- British siege against Rani Lakshmi Bai
- British survivors held out
- Site of massacre & resistance
Options:
A. A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
B. A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
C. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
D. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Residency → British survivors; Jhansi → siege; Red Fort → Mughal court; Kanpur → major resistance.
Q14. Match leaders with their alternative names:
A. Birjis Qadar
B. Maulvi Ahmadullah
C. Bahadur Shah Zafar
D. Kunwar Singh
- Zafar
- Nawab of Awadh (proclaimed)
- Maulvi of Faizabad
- Rajput leader of Jagdishpur
Options:
A. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
B. A-4, B-1, C-3, D-2
C. A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
D. A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Birjis → Awadh Nawab; Ahmadullah → Maulvi; Bahadur Shah → Zafar; Kunwar Singh → Jagdishpur chief.
Q15. Match the following causes of discontent with communities:
A. Missionary Activities
B. Land Revenue Policies
C. Army Reforms
D. Annexation Policies
- Hurt religious sentiments
- Peasants & zamindars burdened
- Kings & nobles threatened
- Sepoys dissatisfied
Options:
A. A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
B. A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
C. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Missionaries → religious fear; Revenue → rural suffering; Army → sepoy anger; Annexation → rulers threatened.
Q16. Match the following towns with key events of 1857:
A. Barrackpore
B. Meerut
C. Jhansi
D. Awadh
- Mangal Pandey’s attack
- First outbreak
- Strong resistance led by Rani
- Annexed in 1856
Options:
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
C. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Barrackpore → Mangal Pandey; Meerut → first revolt; Jhansi → resistance; Awadh → annexed earlier.
Q17. Match British policies with their architects:
A. Permanent Settlement
B. Ryotwari System
C. Mahalwari System
D. Doctrine of Lapse
- Lord Canning
- Lord Wellesley
- Thomas Munro
- Holt Mackenzie
Options:
A. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
B. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
C. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
D. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Permanent → Cornwallis/Wellesley era; Ryotwari → Munro; Mahalwari → Mackenzie; Doctrine → Canning.
Q18. Match the following reports with their focus:
A. Torture Commission Report
B. Inquiry after Revolt
C. Gazetteers
D. District Surveys
- Causes of revolt
- Everyday administration
- Revenue torture by officials
- Statistical study
Options:
A. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
B. A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
C. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
D. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Torture Commission → revenue complaints; Inquiry → causes; Gazetteers → administrative info; Surveys → statistics.
Q19. Match the following cultural symbols with meanings in 1857:
A. Chapatis
B. Lotus Flowers
C. Rumours
D. Prophecies
- Mobilisation signals
- Symbol of unity
- Spread fear/anger
- Predicted Mughal revival
Options:
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
C. A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Chapatis – mobilisation; Lotus – unity; Rumours – anger; Prophecy – Mughal return.
Q20. Match resistance strategies with examples:
A. Guerrilla warfare
B. Mass mobilisation
C. Symbolic leadership
D. Courtly proclamation
- Bahadur Shah declared emperor
- Tantia Tope’s forest warfare
- Chapati distribution
- Mughal seal used on orders
Options:
A. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
B. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
C. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
D. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Guerrilla → Tantia Tope; Mass mobilise → chapatis; Symbolic → emperor title; Courtly → seals.
Q21. Match primary sources with what they reveal:
A. Sepoy letters
B. Court records
C. Diaries
D. Proclamations
- Dissatisfaction of soldiers
- Official judgments
- Personal experiences
- Legitimacy claims
Options:
A. A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
B. A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
C. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Sepoys wrote grievances; Courts → judgments; Diaries → personal events; Proclamations → authority claims.
Q22. Match the following orders with issuing authorities:
A. Deposition of Nawab of Awadh
B. Execution of Tantia Tope
C. Trial of Bahadur Shah II
D. Annexation of Satara
- British Military Court
- Lord Dalhousie
- Lord Canning
- General Napier’s court
Options:
A. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
B. A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
C. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
D. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
Answer: A
Explanation:
Awadh annexation → Canning; Tantia Tope executed by British court; Bahadur Shah tried by Military Court; Satara annexed by Dalhousie.
Q23. Match the following military units with locations:
A. 34th Infantry
B. 3rd Cavalry
C. 7th Oudh Regiment
D. 52nd Native Infantry
- Meerut
- Barrackpore
- Lucknow
- Kanpur
Options:
A. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
B. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
C. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
D. A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
Answer: A
Explanation:
34th Infantry – Barrackpore; 3rd Cavalry – Meerut; 7th Oudh – Lucknow; 52nd – Kanpur.
Q24. Match the following texts with authors:
A. History of the Sepoy War
B. The Indian Mutiny
C. Trial of Bahadur Shah
D. Mutiny Memoirs
- J.W. Kaye
- Thomas Lowe
- Charles Ball
- Court Proceedings
Options:
A. A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2
B. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
C. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
D. A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Kaye wrote Sepoy War; Ball wrote Indian Mutiny; Trial → court records; Memoirs → Lowe.
Q25. Match the following regions with nature of participation:
A. Bihar
B. Punjab
C. Rajasthan
D. Maharashtra
- Limited tribal revolts
- Strong rebellion under Kunwar Singh
- Princes remained loyal
- Isolated peasant uprisings
Options:
A. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
B. A-4, B-1, C-3, D-2
C. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
D. A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
Bihar → strong revolt; Punjab → loyal princes; Rajasthan → tribal revolts; Maharashtra → isolated peasant unrest.
__________________________________________________
