Easterlings

Easterlings is a term used in J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium to refer to the peoples who inhabited the eastern lands of Middle-earth, beyond the Sea of Rhûn. These diverse groups were generally distinct from the Elves, Dwarves, and Men of the West, and their relationship with the free peoples of Middle-earth was often hostile.

The Easterlings were not a single unified race but comprised many different tribes and kingdoms. During the First Age, some Easterlings were allied with the Dark Lord Morgoth, fighting against the Noldor. Later, during the Second and Third Ages, many Easterlings fell under the influence of Sauron, serving as his soldiers and auxiliaries in his wars against Gondor and its allies. Their appearance and customs varied greatly, but they are often depicted as having dark hair and eyes, and their armor and weapons reflected their own cultural styles.

Throughout the history of Middle-earth, Easterlings played a significant role in many conflicts, including the War of the Elves and Sauron, the War of the Last Alliance, and the War of the Ring. While many were antagonists, there were also instances of Easterlings who either remained independent of Sauron's influence or even fought against him, though these were less common. Their lands were vast and largely unexplored by the inhabitants of Western Middle-earth, making them a mysterious and formidable force.