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The French Excitedly Follow the Indian Rebellion of 1857

This detailed lithographed map serves as a comprehensive guide to the territories and political landscape of British India during the Insurrection of 1857.

The primary focus of the map is to follow the progression of the insurrection within British-held territories, though the coverage extends through India and reaches into China and Persia. The map's title and key highlight its purpose, allowing users in France to track significant movements and regions involved in the rebellion. The map is colored to differentiate between British possessions, territories under different rulers, and areas of insurrection, providing a clear visual representation of the geopolitical dynamics during this tumultuous period.

The map is adorned with a variety of illustrations that enhance its historical and cultural context. Surrounding the main map are caricatures of prominent figures, soldiers, and cultural scenes, which offer a glimpse into the diverse and complex societies within these regions. Notable illustrations include scenes from Delhi and depictions of various ethnic groups and military personnel.

A detailed plan of Calcutta is included, offering a closer look at its layout and significant landmarks. Another inset map shows the maritime routes from England to India. Extensive tabular data displays distances between key locations in kilometers.

The key of the map reveals the complex nature of territorial control and influence during this period. British possessions in 1857 are marked distinctly from independent states, French possessions, and areas under French influence. This information is crucial for understanding the political landscape and the shifting alliances and control during the insurrection. Additionally, the map details the French territories in India as of 1857, including Chandernagor, Karikal, Mahé, Pondichéry, and Yanaon, providing a historical context to the map’s depiction of French influence dating back to 1742.

Indian Rebellion of 1857

The Indian Rebellion of 1857, often referred to as the Indian Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence, marked a significant and violent uprising against British colonial rule in India. Sparked by widespread discontent among Indian soldiers (sepoys) in the British East India Company's army, the rebellion quickly spread across northern and central India. Key grievances included the imposition of British policies that undermined traditional Indian social and economic structures, the introduction of new rifle cartridges rumored to be greased with cow and pig fat offensive to both Hindu and Muslim soldiers, and the annexation of Indian territories. The rebellion saw brutal massacres and reprisals on both sides, ultimately resulting in the dissolution of the East India Company and the reorganization of British rule in India under direct control of the British Crown, marking a pivotal moment in India's struggle against colonial domination.