Discuss the contribution of following two rebels of 1857 in first war of independence

Q.10 Discuss the contribution of following two rebels of 1857 in first war of independence

• Shah Mal
• Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah

Ans:

The Revolt of 1857, often termed the First War of Independence, saw the participation of numerous leaders who mobilized people against British rule. Among them, Shah Mal and Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah played pivotal roles in organizing resistance and inspiring rebellion in their respective regions.

Contribution of Shah Mal

1. Mobilization of Villagers: Shah Mal, a Jat cultivator from pargana Baraut (Uttar Pradesh), united the headmen and cultivators of chaurasi des (84 villages) to rebel against British oppression. Example: He traveled at night, urging people to rise against the British and their exploitative land revenue system.
2. Rebellion Against Oppression: The revolt under Shah Mal targeted not only the British but also local symbols of oppression, such as moneylenders and traders. Example: His men plundered moneylenders’ houses and reclaimed lands lost to outsiders.
3. Disruption of British Administration: Shah Mal’s forces destroyed infrastructure like bridges and roads, which were symbols of British rule, and disrupted communication between British headquarters. Example: They stopped official communication between Meerut and Delhi, aiding the mutineers.
4. Establishment of Local Governance: Shah Mal declared himself Raja and set up a “hall of justice” in an English officer’s bungalow, resolving disputes and dispensing judgments. Example: He created an effective intelligence network, making people feel that their own rule had replaced British authority.
5. Support to Sepoys: Shah Mal provided supplies to mutinous sepoys in Delhi, strengthening the revolt’s coordination. Example: His actions ensured local support for the larger rebellion.
6. Sacrifice: Shah Mal was killed in battle in July 1857, becoming a martyr for the cause of independence.

Contribution of Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah

1. Religious Mobilization: Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah, a preacher from Hyderabad, traveled across villages preaching jihad (religious war) against the British. Example: Known as Danka Shah (the maulvi with the drum), he inspired thousands to join the rebellion.
2. Leadership in Revolt: He was elected leader by the 22nd Native Infantry after his release from jail in Faizabad. Example: He led the Battle of Chinhat, defeating British forces under Henry Lawrence.
3. Symbol of Resistance: Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah was seen as an inspired prophet with magical powers, which bolstered his authority and inspired confidence among rebels. Example: Many believed he was invincible, enhancing his influence over the masses.
4. Uniting Muslims: His call for jehad united Muslims against British rule, making him a key figure in the revolt. Example:His preaching in Lucknow and Faizabad galvanized Muslim participation in the rebellion.
5. Legacy of Courage: Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah’s bravery and leadership in battles like Chinhat made him a legendary figure in the revolt. Example: His defiance against the British inspired continued resistance even after his death.

Shah Mal and Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah were instrumental in the Revolt of 1857, each contributing uniquely to the struggle against British rule. Shah Mal’s grassroots mobilization and establishment of local governance symbolized self-rule, while Maulvi Ahmadullah Shah’s religious leadership and military prowess united diverse groups against colonial oppression. Their sacrifices and efforts remain a testament to the spirit of resistance during India’s First War of Independence.

Source : Book NCERT History Theme:3  Page Number 293

Extra Info : Also Read : Pattern of the Rebellions and  The Azamgarh Proclamation, 25 August 1857 Also Read: Subsidiary Alliance: Subsidiary Alliance was a system devised by Lord Wellesley in 1798. All those who entered into such an alliance with the British had to accept certain terms and conditions: The British would be responsible for protecting their ally from external and internal threats to their power.In the territory of the ally, a British armed contingent would be stationed.The ally would have to provide the resources for maintaining this contingent.The ally could enter into agreements with other rulers or engage in warfare only with the permission of the British