The Revolt of 1857 was a complex event that had its roots in various factors, including social, economic, and political. One of the significant causes of the rebellion was the growing resentment among Indians towards British economic policies, which had resulted in the loss of land, employment, and income for many people. The British had also imposed heavy taxes on Indian goods, making it difficult for the Indian economy to thrive. In addition, the British had introduced new laws and institutions that were seen as threatening to traditional Indian society and culture. Another cause of the rebellion was the British policy of favoring European settlers over Indian people. This policy had resulted in discrimination and injustice towards Indians, especially in the areas of employment and education. For instance, Indians were not allowed to hold high-ranking positions in the army or the civil service, and many were denied access to Western education. The revolt began on May 10, 1857, when sepoys in Meerut refused to use cartridges that were rumored to be greased with pig and cow fat, which were forbidden in both Islam and Hinduism. The sepoys were then court-martialed and sentenced to imprisonment, which led to a general mutiny among the sepoys. The sepoys were soon joined by civilians and other Indian soldiers, and the rebellion quickly spread to other parts of India, including Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow. The rebels were able to capture several cities, including Delhi, which became the center of the rebellion. The rebels established their own governments and declared Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, as their leader. The rebellion was not limited to the military and included people from different sections of society, including peasants, artisans, and landlords. The British responded to the rebellion with force, and after a series of battles and sieges, they were able to defeat the rebels in 1858. The British then implemented a policy of divide and rule, which aimed to prevent future uprisings by pitting different Indian communities against each other. The British also introduced several reforms, including the Indian Councils Act of 1861, which allowed Indians to participate in the legislative process. The Revolt of 1857 had a profound impact on Indian society and British rule. It marked the beginning of the end of the British East India Company's rule in India and led to the direct rule of India by the British government. The rebellion also resulted in major changes in British policies towards India, including an end to the doctrine of racial superiority and a recognition of Indian cultural traditions. The rebellion also inspired future generations of Indian freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, in their struggle for independence.