Question

Who was the Commissioner of Lucknow when the rebels besieged it during the Revolt of 1857?

• A. Colin Campbell
• B. Henry Lawrence
• C. James Outram
• D. Henry Havelock

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

During the Revolt of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence, several key British figures were involved in defending against the uprising. In Lucknow, a significant city during the revolt, the British Commissioner was a pivotal figure. The question asks who was the Commissioner of Lucknow when the rebels besieged it. 

Correct Answer: Henry Lawrence

Henry Lawrence was the British Commissioner in Lucknow at the time of the siege. He was an experienced officer and administrator and played a crucial role during the initial days of the siege. Unfortunately, he was mortally wounded early in the conflict and died on July 4, 1857.

To clarify, here are details about the other options:

• Colin Campbell: He was a British Army officer, known later as Lord Clyde, but he was not the Commissioner of Lucknow.
• James Outram: He was another notable British military leader associated with the relief and recapture of Lucknow but was not the commissioner during the siege.
• Henry Havelock: He was involved in the relief operations of Cawnpore and Lucknow but held no commissioner position.

Answer 2

Sir Henry Lawrence was the British Commissioner of Awadh (Oudh) and the key officer in Lucknow when the rebels besieged it during the Revolt of 1857.

Key Points for Competitive Exams:

Role: Lawrence organized the British defense at the Residency in Lucknow, which was besieged by Indian rebels from June 1857.

Death: He died on 4th July 1857 from injuries sustained during the siege.

Successor: After his death, Brigadier John Inglis took command of the Residency defense.

Why Important?

The Siege of Lucknow (1857) was a major event in the Revolt of 1857.