The Sepoy Rebellion, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857, was a major uprising against British rule in India. It began in May 1857 when Indian soldiers, called sepoys, in the British East India Company's army revolted due to various grievances, including cultural insensitivity and harsh treatment. The rebellion spread quickly across northern and central India, with many local rulers and civilians joining the fight against British authority. The rebellion was marked by significant battles and brutal reprisals from the British. Although it was ultimately suppressed by 1858, the Sepoy Rebellion led to significant changes in British policy in India. The British government took direct control of India, ending the rule of the East India Company and marking the beginning of the British Raj.