The Rise of Sauron and the Black Years

Sauron's Ambition and Tyranny

Driven by pride and a desire for absolute control, Sauron declared himself Lord of the Earth. He sought to destroy the Elves and dominate Middle-earth, utilizing both deception to mask his nature from Men and raw force and fear to consolidate his power.

The Onset of the Black Years

Sauron assembled the remaining evil forces of Morgoth, causing the Orc population to explode. This era, termed the Black Years or the Days of Flight, saw many Elves flee to Lindon or leave Middle-earth entirely, while those remaining lived in constant fear of Sauron's expanding shadow.

Resistance in Lindon

Despite Sauron's pervasive influence, Gil-galad successfully held power in Lindon with the assistance of the Númenóreans. Because of this defense, Sauron was initially prevented from crossing the Ered Luin mountains or attacking the Havens, confining his unchallenged rule to the rest of Middle-earth.