“British economic policy was the main cause of the Great Revolt (Indian Mutiny) of 1857.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that British economic policy was the main cause of the Great Revolt. Causes may predate the timeframe, but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the British commercial policies and unfair trading practices, including levying high import duties on finished goods and low export duties on raw materials. Candidates may also refer to the drain of wealth, unfair land revenue policies and disruption of traditional economic structures leading to poverty and famines. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example political policies such as the Doctrine of Lapse, widespread discontent amongst sepoys, unfair annexations, interference in local customs and racial discrimination, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that British economic policy was the main cause of the Great Revolt.