Q&A · 1:18:28-1:18:38

Were Cartagena's commanders court-martialled?

Vernon and Wentworth were recalled rather than court-martialled, after decisions taken collectively by the expedition's commanders.

Command And Control Courts Martial Edward Vernon Military Accountability Thomas Wentworth

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Question

Were the British commanders court-martialled after the defeat at Cartagena?

Short answer

No. The commanders had made decisions collectively, and Vernon and Wentworth were recalled in 1742.

Notes

The commanders were not court-martialled. Councils of war had spread responsibility among the participating officers, making it harder to isolate an individual for prosecution. Vernon and Wentworth blamed one another for the failure and were recalled in 1742.