Indian History·Key Changes

Military Causes — Key Changes

Updated 5 Mar 2026
EntryYearDescriptionImpact
General Service Enlistment Act1856Mandated that all new military recruits must agree to serve anywhere including overseas, violating Hindu caste laws about crossing seas and creating religious anxiety among sepoysCreated two-tier system within regiments, heightened religious tensions, and demonstrated Company's disregard for sepoy traditions, contributing directly to 1857 revolt