Who led the fight against the British in Lucknow during the revolt of 1857? 

The correct answer is Begum Hazrat Mahal.

Key Points

• Begum Hazrat Mahal was one of the prominent leaders of the revolt of 1857 and led the resistance against British forces in Lucknow.
• She was the wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last ruler of the Kingdom of Awadh (Oudh).
• Following the annexation of Awadh by the British under the Doctrine of Lapse, she took charge of the rebellion to regain control of the region.
• Begum Hazrat Mahal played a crucial role in mobilizing both soldiers and civilians, uniting people from various backgrounds to fight against colonial rule.
• Her efforts led to the temporary recapture of Lucknow from British forces, showcasing her exceptional leadership skills.

Additional Information

• Revolt of 1857:
  • Also known as the First War of Indian Independence, it was a major but ultimately unsuccessful uprising against the British East India Company.
  • The revolt began on May 10, 1857, in Meerut and spread to various parts of India.
  • Key reasons for the revolt included economic exploitation, political annexations, and cultural insensitivity by the British.
• Doctrine of Lapse:
  • A policy introduced by Lord Dalhousie, it allowed the British to annex Indian princely states if the ruler died without a direct male heir.
  • This policy was one of the catalysts for the discontent that led to the revolt of 1857.
• Role of Women in 1857 Revolt:
  • Women like Begum Hazrat Mahal, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, and others played pivotal roles in the uprising.
  • They demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership in organizing resistance against the British forces.
• Legacy of Begum Hazrat Mahal:
  • Though the revolt was suppressed, her resistance became a symbol of India's struggle for independence.
  • She spent the later years of her life in Nepal, where she passed away in 1879.
  • Her contribution has been commemorated in India through various memorials and stamps.