“Bonanza” was one of the most popular television Western and reruns are still viewed by country-Western lovers today. The Cartwright’s are the lead characters of the classic Western television show “Bonanza”. The show has made various lists for Top Television Shows of All Time primarily for the roles of the dynamic characters. The four main characters are father Ben Cartwright and his three sons, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe Cartwright. The four of them tackle adventures together on the Ponderosa and protect their family and community.

Ben Cartwright had lost three wives tragically, and had one son with each wife. Early episodes of “Bonanza” showed Ben’s wives through flashbacks. Through these glimpses viewers could understand Ben’s sentimental side. Ben is sensible and kind, yet firm when dealing with tough issues. He discusses with his sons their responsibilities and gives them advice. All the Cartwright sons developed relationships throughout the seasons, but most of the women that came into their lives died tragically.

Adam Cartwright was the eldest son and admired by the other sons. He built the Cartwright house from the ground up. Although the eldest, he’s often treated in a childlike way. Eric Cartwright, the middle son, acquired the nickname Hoss, meaning friendly. He was originally conceived on the show as lovable but slow-witted, but smart and new right from wrong. He was notorious for breaking up fights and doing good. Little Joe Cartwright, as the name suggests, was the youngest son and oftentimes treated as the baby of the family by the older Cartwright sons. Similar to other westerns of this time, confrontations often lead to physical fighting. The Cartwright men battle it out for land, property or women, with a lifelong lesson at the end spoken by Ben to his sons. The Cartwright family will forever be remembered.