What type of rebellion was the Sepoy Rebellion?

The Sepoy Rebellion, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the Indian Rebellion of 1857, is best understood as a military mutiny. This uprising originated from discontent among Indian soldiers (sepoys) in the British East India Company's army, largely due to issues such as the introduction of new rifle cartridges rumored to be greased with animal fat, which conflicted with the religious beliefs of both Hindu and Muslim soldiers.

This rebellion was sparked by various grievances, including the erosion of local power structures, heavy taxation, and disrespect towards Indian social and religious practices. While there were indeed economic and ideological factors at play, the initial uprising was catalyzed by specific military orders that undermined the sepoys’ respect for their authority and prompted a coordinated revolt against British rule.

The military nature of this rebellion involved widespread mutinies and violent confrontations involving sepoys and British forces. Thus, classifying the Sepoy Rebellion as a military mutiny encapsulates the core reason for its onset—discontent among soldiers leading to armed uprising and ultimately widespread resistance against colonial rule.