In 1856 the British Army emerged from its first conflict with a major power since 1815 – the Crimean War. Though victory over the Russians had been won, the war revealed many defects in the British military system which ideally would require a period of peace to repair. Yet within 14 months of the Peace of Paris being signed with Russia, the Army was faced with a crisis which, before it was finally resolved, would require an even greater commitment of force. Michael Barthorp examines the history, dress, equipment and weapons of the British and native troops who quelled the Indian Mutiny.