CRIMEAN WAR—1854-1856.
(1) Russia vs. (2) Turkey aided by Great Britain, France and Sardinia.
Causes: The question of the political status and future of the lands of the Turkish empire. Immediate cause, the claim of Russia to a protectorate over all Greek Christians living under the sultan’s rule.
Leaders: (1) Mentchikoff, Gortchakoff; (2) Canrobert, Pelissier (France), Raglan, Simpson (England).
Chief Actions: (1) Balaclava; (2) Alma, Siege of Sebastopol, Inkermann.
Results: In the peace of Paris (1856) Russia’s claim to a protectorate is disallowed, the Danube is opened to navigation and the Black Sea is closed to war vessels of all powers.
SEPOY MUTINY—1857-1858.
(1) Sepoys vs. (2) English.
Causes: Uneasiness created by the rapid progress of British ways and rule causes a revolt of native Sepoy troops of India. Immediate cause the rumor that cartridges furnished troops were greased with a mixture of hog and beef fat—the one animal an object of loathing to Mohammedans, the other of religious worship to the Hindu.
Leaders: (1) Nana Sahib; (2) Nicholson, Havelock, Campbell.