Dark Years referred to a prolonged period during the Second Age of Middle-earth, characterized by the rise and dominance of Sauron, the decline of free cultures, and the spread of tyranny and cultic worship across much of the continent. The phrase was used primarily in Elvish and Númenórean traditions to denote the centuries in which the Shadow extended over Middle-earth, particularly after the destruction of Eregion and before the War of the Last Alliance.
Chronological Scope[]
The Dark Years are generally understood to span from circa S.A. 1,700, following the fall of Eregion, to S.A. 3,430, the beginning of the War of the Last Alliance. Some traditions extend the term back to S.A. 1,000, when Sauron first established himself in Mordor and began his long campaign of deception and conquest.
Political and Military Developments[]
Sauron's consolidation of power began with the construction of Barad-dûr and the forging of the One Ring in secret. After the invasion of Eregion (S.A. 1,697–1,700), Sauron gained control over much of Eriador, scattering the Elves and destroying their cities. He extended his influence into the East and South, where many Mannish cultures fell under his sway and began to worship him as a divine figure. Black Númenórean colonies in Umbar and other southern regions began to mirror Sauron's ideology, establishing fortresses, cults, and slave systems.
Cultural and Religious Aspects[]
The Dark Years saw the decline of literacy, trade, and craftsmanship among many peoples, especially those outside Elvish and Dwarvish strongholds. Cultic worship of Sauron spread widely, particularly in Harad, later Khand, and the White Mountains. Human sacrifice and temple-building became common in some regions. Resistance movements existed but were fragmented. The Elves of Lindon, the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm, and the Faithful Númenóreans maintained isolated bastions of culture and opposition.
Númenor's Role[]
Initially, Númenor acted as a stabilizing force, establishing colonies and trade routes. Over time, the Kings of Númenor became increasingly tyrannical, especially under the influence of Sauron after S.A. 3,262, when he was taken captive and brought to the island. Sauron corrupted Númenor from within, leading to the establishment of the Temple of Morgoth, the persecution of the Faithful, and ultimately the Downfall of Númenor in S.A. 3,319.
End of the Dark Years[]
The Dark Years culminated in the War of the Last Alliance (S.A. 3,430–3,441), when Elves and Men united to confront Sauron. The war ended with the siege of Barad-dûr, the death of Gil-galad and Elendil, and the temporary defeat of Sauron. Though the One Ring was not destroyed, Sauron lost his physical form, and the Shadow receded for a time.
Legacy[]
The Dark Years left deep scars on Middle-earth's cultures, particularly among Men who had served Sauron or suffered under his rule. They explain the fragmentation of eastern and southern societies, the rise of Black Númenórean dynasties, and the mistrust between Elves and Men. Many cults, ruins, and traditions from this period persisted into the Third Age, especially in Harad, Umbar, and Khand.
Main overview: Domain of the Lidless Eye Portal
Editorial Note: This entry contains speculative or fan-based material — such as fanon, fanfiction, or theory constructs — that may not be directly supported by canonical texts. Interpretations offered here are part of the NNCA’s speculative corpus and should not be mistaken for primary Tolkien sources.