The 1857 revolt, also known as the 'Sepoy Mutiny' or the 'First War of Indian Independence,' was a severe setback to the British East India Company, which had established its rule over most parts of India. The Britishers were surprised by the extent of solidarity displayed by the Indian soldiers who revolted against the British officers. When the rebellion spread to other parts of India from Meerut, the Britishers struggled to form the fighting forces. However, they managed to get support from most of the princely states and aristocrat Indians. The rebellion offered stiff resistance to the British forces. However, for various reasons, the 1857 revolt lasted only for a year.
