by Hal Erickson
synopsis
The ugly consequences of bigotry are examined in this episode of Bonanza. Gene Evans plays Andrew Fulmer, who runs for mayor of Virginia City on a "hate all outsiders" platform. Backed up by hired thugs, Fulmer targets the town's Chinese population for his most violent persecution. The hostility reaches a fever pitch when, after trying to protect Sally Ridley (Pat Michon) from being mauled by two of Fulmer's hooligans (Ray Stricklyn, Christopher Dark), Jimmy Chong (Guy Lee) is accused of assaulting -- and then killing -- the girl. Helen Westcott co-stars as Amanda Ridley. First broadcast on January 30, 1960, "The Fear Merchants" was written by Fred Unger and Thomas Thompson.
