Overview:
The brewing conflict between Jericho and New Bern reaches a tipping point in “One If By Land,” as tensions escalate into outright hostilities. With diplomacy failing and war looming, the episode raises urgent questions about loyalty, survival, and the morality of warfare.
Plot Summary:
Following the shocking revelations from New Bern, Jake Green (Skeet Ulrich) returns to Jericho with a dire warning—their neighbors are preparing for battle, and Jericho must either defend itself or surrender.
Eric Green (Kenneth Mitchell), still recovering from his ordeal in New Bern, struggles to process what happened. His experiences fuel Jericho’s fear, reinforcing the reality that negotiation is no longer an option.
Meanwhile, Robert Hawkins (Lennie James) continues tracking larger movements beyond Jericho, hinting that the fight between the two towns is only a small part of a much bigger power struggle.
As Jericho begins arming itself, Gray Anderson (Michael Gaston) pushes for aggressive defenses, further dividing the town’s leadership. Jake, however, remains focused on strategic preparation, knowing that rash decisions could doom them all.
The episode builds toward a climactic confrontation when New Bern makes its first move, raiding supplies and threatening Jericho’s safety. With war officially underway, survival now depends on the choices made in the coming days.
Themes and Analysis:
- The Inevitability of War – The breakdown of diplomacy underscores the harsh reality that survival sometimes demands conflict.
- Leadership Under Fire – As Jericho prepares for war, leadership struggles grow more pronounced, highlighting differing ideologies.
- The Bigger Picture – Hawkins’ continued research suggests that Jericho’s battles may only be a small part of something much larger.
Memorable Moments:
- Jake’s Warning – His desperate push to prepare the town raises the stakes of the impending battle.
- Eric’s Emotional Struggles – His firsthand knowledge of New Bern’s ruthlessness fuels Jericho’s fight.
- The First Attack – The raid from New Bern marks the official beginning of open war between the two towns.
Character Spotlight:
Jake Green solidifies his role as Jericho’s leading figure, forced to make the hardest decisions as the town faces destruction.
Robert Hawkins remains a wildcard, as his secretive actions suggest Jericho’s war may not be its biggest threat.
Conclusion:
“One If By Land” delivers an intense build-up toward full-scale war, ensuring that Jericho maintains its gripping survival drama. With diplomacy shattered and the town under siege, the show proves that survival isn’t just about resilience—it’s about strategy, leadership, and the willingness to fight for what matters. As war looms, the town’s future has never been more uncertain.
