The Revolt of 1857 could not be successful on account of the following factors (reasons):

a) Lack of unity and cohesion:

Many state rulers e.g. the Scindias, Holkars, Nizam of Hyderabad, Nawab of Bhopal, Rajas of Patiala, Nabha, Jind Jodhpur etc., big Zamindars and traders actively supported the British. The Sikh, Rajput and Gorkha Battalions remained loyal to the British to suppress the Revolt.

b) The rising was not widespread:

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The Revolt was limited to U.P., Delhi and West Bengal. It did not assume a national character.

c) No common aims and ideals:

The Hindus and the Muslims wanted to establish their separate empires. There was no unified programme.

d) Lack of discipline, resources and organization:

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The revolutionaries lacked resources (men and money), discipline and organization. They were brave and patriotic but lacked leadership qualities.

An unplanned early start: An unplanned early start (Much before the scheduled date i.e. May) alerted the British rulers. The revolt was crushed and failed miserably.