What Happened to the Inhabitants of Eriador after the Fall of Arnor?

When the kingdom of Arnor fell in Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings lore, many of its inhabitants faced significant challenges. The fall of Arnor was marked by internal strife, invasions by the Witch-king of Angmar, and the gradual decline of the northern Dúnedain. This article delves into the fate of the inhabitants of Eriador, the region that was formerly home to Arnor.

The Fall of Arnor and Its Impact

As Arnor fell, many people fled to safer regions. This migration led to a diverse population that included not only Men but also Hobbits and other inhabitants. Bree, one of the last strongholds of Men in Eriador, remained a refuge for many fleeing the dangers of the region.

Migration and Dispersal

Many inhabitants may have migrated southward to the more stable kingdoms of Gondor and Rohan. The relative safety and prosperity of these regions attracted those fleeing the dangers in Eriador. Some people likely integrated into smaller communities or lived as nomads in the wilderness, blending with local populations or forming their own settlements.

The Decline of the Dúnedain

The Dúnedain, the descendants of the men of Arnor, became scattered and diminished in number. Many took to a more rugged solitary lifestyle, becoming Rangers who protected the lands from threats. The fall of Arnor led to a loss of culture and governance, with many people losing their identity as they assimilated into other cultures or became isolated.

The Desolation of Eriador

Between the wars, invasions, natural disasters, and plagues, Eriador became a desolate wasteland. Cities and towns were abandoned and fell into ruin. Fornost Erain, one of the last capitals, was referred to as Deadman’s Dike by those who lived in Bree. The only exceptions were the Shire, the establishment and continued existence of the Dwarves in their mines in the Blue Mountains, and the Rangers, descendants of the rulers of Arnor, who had small scattered settlements.

The Return of Eriador

After the fall of Sauron, Eriador became part of the Reunited Kingdom. King Elessar reestablished the capital at Fornost and restored Annuminas, indicating that Eriador was repopulated with Men once again.

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