Final answer:
In response to the 1857 rebellion, the British government abolished the East India Company, took direct control of India through the British Raj, restructured their army, and initiated social reforms, all aimed at preventing further insurgencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
British Measures Post-1857 Rebellion
The rebellion in 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny, highlighted the inadequacies of the British East India Company in governing India effectively. In response to the mutiny, the British government took several steps to prevent future rebellions. One of the principal actions was the abolition of the British East India Company, with the British government taking direct control over India, starting the period known as the British Raj. This newfound control was established through the appointment of a Viceroy, who would rule on behalf of the British monarchy.
Another significant change was the reorganization of the British army in India. The British reduced the number of Indian troops and increased the number of British troops to deter potential rebellions. They also attempted to balance the composition of the Indian troops among different religious and ethnic groups to prevent unified opposition. The divide-and-rule policy was a key aspect of their strategy to maintain control over the diverse Indian population.
Furthermore, the British introduced social reforms aimed at reducing dissent. They passed laws to counteract practices believed to be barbaric or oppressive, such as sati (the practice of widow immolation). The British also made attempts to integrate Indian elites into the governance structure, hoping to gain loyalty by giving them a stake in the continuation of British rule.
To conclude, the British implemented a combination of military, political, and social strategies to prevent the occurrence of another rebellion like the one in 1857.