The Joint Committee of the Conduct of the War Approved by Congress

Fr5om the December 10, 2011, Civil War Gazette.

I have mostly heard of this group because of the hearing on Benjamin Butler's attack on Fort Fisher, but didn't know much about its origins.  I did know it was set up to look into Union debacles.

The Union disaster at the Battle of Ball's Bluff was the incentive for the group.  It was not a big battle, but very important from a political view.  What was wanted to know was who was at fault: Col. Edward D. Baker or General Charles Stone or was it that the regular Army soldiers were guilty for not aiding the volunteers.

The press, military, people and politicians wanted somebody's head.  Since early December, the 37th Congress had been discussing how to find that scapegoat (or guilty party).  It was decided a joint committee of both Senate and House members would be set up.  It was approved by the Senate and then, on December 10th, by the House.

It consisted of three senators and four representatives who had  the "power to send for persons and papers and to sit during recess of either house of Congress.

Go Get 'Em, Boys!!  --Old Secesh