The Government’s Response and Its Meaning

The American government’s response to the Washita engagement was very different from its response to Sand Creek.

Sand Creek had produced congressional investigations, military tribunals, and widespread public condemnation.

Chivington had been driven from public life in disgrace, though not prosecuted.

Evans had been removed from his governorship.

The political cost of Sand Creek had been significant.

The Washita produced no similar reckoning.

Sheridan praised Custer.