The Cartwright family is a fictional family from the American television series Bonanza, which aired from 1959 to 1973. The show is set in the 1860s and follows the lives of the Cartwrights, who own the Ponderosa Ranch near Lake Tahoe, Nevada. The family consists of Ben Cartwright and his three sons: Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe. Each son has a distinct personality and background, contributing to the show's themes of family, loyalty, and adventure. The series explores their relationships and challenges as they navigate life in the American West, often dealing with issues such as justice, morality, and community.