Rao Sahib Peshwa, also known as Nana Sahib, was a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against British colonial rule. His thinking can be understood through his actions and demands during the rebellion.
Nana Sahib was the adopted son of the last Peshwa, Baji Rao II, and had a strong sense of entitlement to the Peshwa throne. He believed that the British had unjustly annexed his family's territories and sought to regain power and authority for himself and his family.
During the rebellion, Nana Sahib played a significant role in organizing and leading the uprising in Kanpur (then Cawnpore). He managed to gather a large force of rebel soldiers and civilians, including sepoys (Indian soldiers in the British East India Company's army) who had revolted against their British officers.
Nana Sahib's thinking was influenced by a desire for revenge against the British for their perceived mistreatment of Indian rulers and their interference in Indian affairs. He sought to establish an independent Indian state, with himself as the ruler, and aimed to drive the British out of India.
One of the most infamous incidents associated with Nana Sahib was the Kanpur Massacre. After the British forces surrendered to the rebels in Kanpur, Nana Sahib promised them safe passage but later reneged on his word. The British men, women, and children were brutally killed, leading to a significant loss of British lives and further intensifying the conflict.
Nana Sahib's ultimate goal was to establish a united front against the British and gain support from other Indian rulers and rebel leaders. However, his efforts were not entirely successful, and the rebellion eventually faced defeat due to a lack of coordination and support from other regions.
Overall, Nana Sahib's thinking revolved around reclaiming power for himself and his family, seeking revenge against the British, and establishing an independent Indian state.