Ep 21. The Emperor of Rice

In The Big Valley season 3 episode 21, titled 'The Emperor of Rice,' we follow the adventures of the Barkley family as they try to solve a peculiar mystery. The episode opens with the arrival of a group of Japanese immigrants led by Emperor Hirohito, who has decided to invest in California rice fields. While the Barkleys believe that this may bring much-needed economic benefits to the region, not everyone is pleased with the decision.

Soon, trouble ensues as a group of saboteurs try to hinder the investment by causing accidents and acts of destruction. The situation worsens when one of the Japanese workers is falsely accused of theft and is lynched by the angry locals. The Barkleys, who are committed to justice and fairness, decide to investigate the crime and clear the worker's name. They are aided in their quest by Ryuchi (played by James Shigeta), a wise and noble leader from the Japanese community who becomes a valuable ally and friend.

As the Saboteurs continue their destructive actions, tensions rise, and the Barkleys are forced to take action to protect the lives and livelihoods of their friends and business partners. Together with Ryuchi and the Japanese workers, they devise a plan to catch the culprits and bring them to justice. Along the way, they confront prejudice, violence, and greed, but also discover the power of unity and compassion.

As the episode comes to a close, the Barkleys emerge as heroes, and justice is served. The Japanese workers can continue their work in peace while the Barkleys reap the benefits of their partnership. The Emperor of Rice is a tale of friendship, courage, and justice, and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. It portrays the struggles of marginalized communities to overcome prejudice and stereotypes, and the importance of working together to build a better future. With its timeless message and memorable characters, The Big Valley season 3 episode 21 is a classic Western tale that continues to resonate with audiences to this day.