The Truth About Kingdoms and Tribes in Middle-earth During the Second Age

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Many falsely assume that the men of Middle-earth during the Second Age lacked a kingdom until the Numenoreans arrived. However, the reality is quite different and rich with history, as detailed by J.R.R. Tolkien. This article aims to clarify the truth about men's tribes, kingdoms, and their interactions with Sauron and the Númenóreans.

Origins of Men in Middle-earth

Men in Middle-earth during the Second Age were not without their own kingdoms or tribal structures. Tolkien meticulously described the origins of these human inhabitants, including the Northmen, Easterners, the Men of the White Mountains, Drúedain, the Forodwaith, and other indigenous groups. These groups held differing relationships with Sauron, Númenor, and the Elves.

From Tribes to Kingdoms

Northmen: Initial inhabitants of Beleriand, some Northmen crossed the mountains and established themselves in the land of Eriador. These groups were originally of similar lineage to the "good" men of Beleriand but did not benefit from the protection of the Elves beyond the mountains.

Easterlings: Descendants of Morgoth's allies, these Easterners established themselves in the northern regions of Eriador after the fall of Morgoth. They were often perceived as hostile entities by the Elder Kingdoms of Men.

Men of the White Mountains: The ancestors of the Oath-breakers, who established a kingdom but later broke their oath to Sauron, referred to as Minas Ithil in later years. These groups had more complex relationships with Sauron and the Númenoreans.

Drúedain: A mysterious race, often referred to as the Wildmen, who lived in the forest regions of Middle-earth. They maintained a distinct culture and did not necessarily align with the other human groups.

Forodwaith: A northern group mentioned in Tolkien's works, though less detailed, they contributed to the diverse human landscape of Middle-earth.

Alignments and Conflicts

Under Sauron's rule during the Second Age, many Middle Men lived in submission and fear. Sauron, as a god-king figure to them, imposed his will through military might, which often led to conflict with the Númenóreans. The Númenóreans, known for their great power and advanced technology, initiated the clearing and colonization of Middle-earth, angering the forest-dwelling inhabitants who had lived in these lands for ages.

The relationship between Sauron and the Númenóreans was fraught with tension. Once the Númenóreans advanced and established control over large areas, conflicts became common. The indigenous peoples, fewer in number but superior in some respects, often found themselves on the losing side.

The Exodus and New Kingdoms

When the Faithful, exiled from Númenor, arrived in Middle-earth, they did not start their kingdoms from scratch. They found themselves in lands already inhabited by Númenórean colonists, not only in what became Gondor but also in Arnor. These colonists had settled in these regions, contributing to the existing infrastructure.

Tolkien's narrative suggests a symbolic arrival of the Faithful, much like the founding of Lavinium by Aeneas, where the Númenóreans had already laid the groundwork. However, the narrative also implies that the colonists in Arnor may not have established great cities, as the fall of Númenor and the establishment of Gondor and Arnor are described as subsequent events.

Despite this, many "middle men" became subjects or allies to the new kingdoms. However, given the complex and often hostile relationship with Númenor and Sauron, these people were not always lenient in their treatment.

Black Númenóreans

A notable exception to the general rule was the group known as the Black Númenóreans. These were Númenórean colonists who survived the catastrophic fall of Númenor and became enemies of the Faithful. Their activities and influence in Middle-earth were pivotal in shaping the political landscape.

Chat with us for more insights into this fascinating world of Middle-earth. Explore the rich tapestry of human history, conflict, and resilience that Tolkien so brilliantly crafted.