"The Waltons" is an American television series that aired from 1972 to 1981. Set during the Great Depression and World War II, it follows the lives of the Walton family in the fictional town of Walton's Mountain, Virginia. The show highlights the family's struggles, values, and close-knit relationships, emphasizing themes of love, perseverance, and community. The series features a large ensemble cast, including Richard Thomas as John-Boy Walton, the eldest son and aspiring writer. Each episode typically revolves around the family's daily life, showcasing their challenges and triumphs while providing a nostalgic look at rural American life during the early 20th century.