1857: Indian Rebellion (V1495)
15 credits, Level 5
Spring teaching
In 1857 Indian soldiers rebelled against British authority in an uprising that spread widely and violently across Northern and Central India. It took several months before the rebellion could be stopped, but the consequences lasted for decades.
On this module, you’ll put the rebellion into context, exploring the nature of 19th and early 20th century British India and the lives of the Indian and British men and women who shaped it. You’ll also explore how the rebellion was remembered in popular and political cultures for generations to come.
For many Indian people it was cast as the first step towards nationhood, becoming known as the First War of Independence. To the British – for whom it was the ‘Indian Mutiny’ – it shook imperial self-confidence and led to a determination to strengthen British rule. Primary material will be embedded throughout the module such as:
- personal accounts
- visual material
- press reports.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.
We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Courses
This module is offered on the following courses: