Ep 22. Blood on the Land

Ben Cartwright and his sons - Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe - have a reputation in Virginia City as fair and just businessmen, who will always fight for what is right. However, in Bonanza season 1 episode 22 - "Blood on the Land", the family faces a challenge unlike any other.

The episode begins on a peaceful note, with Ben's friend, rancher Sam Bordis, paying a visit to the Cartwrights and informing them that he has struck gold on his land. Ben and his sons are happy for Sam and congratulate him on his good fortune. However, their joy is short-lived, as word spreads and greedy men from all over come to stake a claim on Sam's land. Sam soon finds himself under siege from these opportunists, who are willing to use force to drive him off his property.

Ben and his sons spring into action to help their friend and protect his land. They do their best to reason with the claim jumpers, but quickly realize that their words hold no sway over these ruthless men. As the situation gets more and more tense, Ben sends Adam and Hoss to town to fetch the sheriff, leaving himself and Little Joe to hold off the claim jumpers.

The episode then takes a suspenseful turn as Ben and Little Joe find themselves outmanned and outgunned by the claim jumpers. They are forced to resort to desperate measures to drive the intruders off Sam's land. Their actions have consequences, however - Sam is badly injured in the chaos, and Ben and his family find themselves facing a lawsuit for their actions.

"Blood on the Land" is a standout episode of Bonanza, as it showcases the series' trademark themes of family, justice, and morality in a high-stakes situation. The episode is particularly notable for its portrayal of the Cartwright family's unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of adversity. Viewers will find themselves on the edge of their seats as they watch the Cartwrights battle for justice and the survival of their friend's land.

At the same time, "Blood on the Land" is also a nuanced exploration of the gray areas of morality. The episode challenges viewers to consider whether the Cartwrights' actions were truly just, or whether they were merely acting out of self-interest. It also raises interesting questions about the role of property rights and the use of force in defending them.

The performances in "Blood on the Land" are top-notch, with Lorne Greene (Ben), Pernell Roberts (Adam), Dan Blocker (Hoss), and Michael Landon (Little Joe) all delivering powerful performances. The episode is also notable for its excellent supporting cast, including guest stars Roy Thinnes (as Sam) and Bing Russell (as a shady businessman who tries to take advantage of the situation).

Overall, "Blood on the Land" is a must-watch episode for fans of Bonanza or Westerns in general. It is a thrilling, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant installment that showcases the series' strengths at their best.