Summary
An overview of Sauron's ascent to power, his dominion over Middle-earth, and the resulting era of oppression known as the Black Years.
The Rise of Sauron and the Black Years
Highlights
Sauron's Ambition and Rule
Sauron's ambition grew until he sought total control over Middle-earth, aiming to eliminate the Elves and humble Númenor. He established himself as the Dark Lord, ruling through a combination of deception and brutal force while gathering the remnants of Morgoth's evil forces and vast armies of Orcs.
The Black Years and Elven Resistance
The period of terror known as the Black Years caused many Elves to flee Middle-earth or face destruction. Despite this, Gil-galad maintained a stronghold in Lindon, protected by the Mountains of Ered Luin and bolstered by the support of the Númenóreans, successfully keeping Sauron's forces at bay.