Understanding 1857

A monster anvil for Armstrong Guns - Ordnance Works, Elswick near Newcastle | Source - Illustrated London News - April 27th 1861

More than India, the 1857 War, changed the world. The War of 1857 stamped Britain as a prime super-power in the world – beyond any question. After gaining control over India’s historic gunpowder production, Britain’s rise to power was inexorable. By becoming the highest bidder in the Indian sepoy market, Britain also gained the largest army in the world that none could compete with. India’s shipbuilding capacity bolstered the share of tonnage that British shipping controlled in the world.

South American gold production earlier controlled by Spain and Portugal had funded the rise of Spain and Portugal. India’s huge private reserves of gold coupled with British control over Canada, Australia, Africa moved the centre of gravity away from Spain and South America. India became the largest market, raw material supplier and financier for the rise of Britain. Much to India’s disadvantage.

2ndlook at India & the World in 1857

1857 – A Year in Hindsight

1857 – A Failed ‘Mutiny’?

How 1857 changed world history …

1857 – The Siege of Lucknow

India – Science, Technology & Industry

Death of Indian Shipbuilding

1857 – Some History, Some Propaganda

Book Review – Operation Red Lotus

Indian Ships – British Navy

Britain – The Rise of a Pirate Empire

India Non-Violent Struggle? The Myth

Famous Last Words

One More Chapter In Anglo Saxon Bloodshed

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