What event is known as the Sepoy Rebellion?

The Sepoy Rebellion, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857, was a significant uprising by Indian soldiers, known as sepoys, against the British East India Company. This event marked a turning point in Indian history, as it was one of the first widespread acts of resistance against British colonial rule. The rebellion was fueled by various grievances, including cultural insensitivity, economic exploitation, and specific issues such as the introduction of the new Enfield rifle, which required soldiers to bite off the ends of cartridges that were rumored to be greased with animal fat—offensive to both Hindu and Muslim sepoys.

The rebellion did not achieve its goal of independence but nevertheless had profound impacts on British policy in India. Following the suppression of the uprising, the British Crown took direct control over India, leading to the end of the East India Company's rule and significant changes in administrative practices.

The other options do not accurately describe the Sepoy Rebellion. It was not a successful independence movement, nor was it an event focused on unity under British rule or resistance against French forces. Instead, it was a specific mutiny reflecting the conflict between Indian soldiers and British colonial authority.