Final answer:
The cause of the Sepoy Rebellion, from Gardiner's perspective, was the introduction of new rifle cartridges greased with animal fat, which violated the religious beliefs of the Sepoys. These cartridges and the requirement to bite off the ends were seen as deliberate attempts to force the Sepoys to compromise their religious practices. However, the rebellion was also influenced by broader grievances such as oppressive British policies and cultural imperialism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cause of the Sepoy Rebellion, from Gardiner's perspective, was primarily due to the introduction of the new Enfield rifle cartridges greased with animal fat. The Sepoys, who were Indian soldiers in the British East India Company's army, believed that the cartridges were greased with the fat of cows and pigs, which were considered sacred and impure respectively in their religious beliefs. This led to religious and cultural tensions, as it violated their customs and beliefs.
The suspicion and resentment among the Sepoys escalated further when they were required to bite off the ends of the cartridges before loading them into their rifles. This act was interpreted by the Sepoys as the deliberate attempt by the British to force them to violate their religious practices. The resentment grew and eventually culminated in a widespread rebellion known as the Sepoy Rebellion or the Indian Mutiny.
It is important to note that while the issue of the greased cartridges was a significant factor, the rebellion was also fueled by a range of broader grievances including oppressive British policies, economic exploitation, and cultural imperialism.
Learn more about Cause of the Sepoy Rebellion