Easterling

Easterling is a term used in historical and literary contexts to refer to a person from the East, particularly in the context of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. The term is often used to distinguish these individuals from the Western Roman Empire, which was centered in what is now Italy. The Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, was characterized by its distinct cultural, religious, and political traditions, which often set it apart from the Western Roman Empire.

The term "Easterling" can also be used more broadly to refer to people from Eastern Europe or Asia, depending on the context. In literature, particularly in the works of authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, "Easterling" is used to describe a fictional race of people from the East, often depicted as having a distinct culture and appearance.

In a historical context, Easterlings were often associated with the Byzantine Empire, which maintained a distinct identity and culture throughout its existence. The term can also be used to describe people from the East in a more general sense, reflecting the diverse cultural and geographical contexts in which it is used.