Modern History : The Revolt Of 1857: First War Of Independence

Q 7 / 10

UPSC CSE Prelims 2005

Which one of the following places did Kunwar Singh, a prominent leader of the Revolt of 1857 belong to?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

Kunwar Singh was a prominent leader of the Revolt of 1857, hailing from Jagdispur in the Bhojpur district of Bihar. Despite being approximately 80 years old, he actively led the armed resistance against the British in the region. He employed guerrilla warfare tactics effectively. His leadership was crucial in extending the revolt's influence in Bihar, and he continued fighting until his demise.

Incorrect Options

The other options are incorrect as Kunwar Singh's primary area of operation and origin was Bihar.

  • Madhya Pradesh: Key leaders associated with the Revolt of 1857 in this region included Rani Lakshmibai (Jhansi, which borders MP) and Tantia Tope, who operated in various parts of Central India, including Gwalior.
  • Rajasthan: While there were local uprisings in Rajasthan, such as at Kota and Awah, no prominent national leader of the stature of Kunwar Singh emerged from this specific region to lead the 1857 Revolt.
  • Uttar Pradesh: This state was a major epicentre of the Revolt, with leaders like Begum Hazrat Mahal (Lucknow), Nana Saheb and Tantia Tope (Kanpur), and Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah (Faizabad). However, Kunwar Singh was not associated with Uttar Pradesh.
SOURCEIndia's Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra, Chapter 6: The First Major Challenge: The Revolt of 1857