
Free Peoples
General Info

Faction Name | Free Peoples |
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Overview
The indestructible spirit of these creatures is personified in their leaders: the wise Elrond, the fearless Aragorn, the charming Frodo Baggins and the venerable Gandalf. These characters work together with others to make strategic moves to defeat the forces of evil and prevent Middle-earth from descending into anarchy. But the Free Nations are gifted with more than courage and leadership. They also possess sacred artifacts such as rings of power – Vilya, Nenya, Narya – and weapons of legendary size – Andúril and Sting – to help them dismantle Sauron's rule.
Despite different races, languages and cultures, free nations have put aside their differences and are united in a common cause. Their alliance forms the heart and hope of Middle-earth and is a lasting stand of good and light against the forces of darkness and despair. In the Lord of the Rings universe, the free nations serve as a beacon of courage, unity, sacrifice, and hope, proving that even in the darkest of times, hope can come from unity and courage.
History
People, also called men, are the most diverse free nations. They are scattered across Middle-earth and have established various kingdoms and societies. Notable among them are the kingdom of Gondor, ruled by the line of Anarion, and the kingdom of Rohan, renowned for its prowess on horseback. Hobbits, small people who tend to live a comfortable, agricultural lifestyle, live in the Shire. The hobbits' quiet devotion to their way of life often keeps them out of the great tales of Middle-earth, right down to the extraordinary adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins.
Elves, the firstborn sons of Ilúvatar, have a history as old as Middle-earth itself. Gifted with immortality, they made an indelible impact on the world, leaving their mark on realms such as Rivendell and Lothórien. However, with the advent of The Lord of the Rings, their power is fading and their types are slowly leaving Middle-earth for the Undying Lands. Eventually the dwarves, determined and skilled in mining and blacksmithing, created great mountain halls such as Erebor and Khazad-dûm. Although dwarves often keep to their mountains, they have greatly shaped the material wealth of Middle-earth through their craftsmanship.
The collective resilience, courage, and wisdom of the Free Peoples is what ultimately stands against the shadow that threatens Middle-earth. Their intertwined stories are a testament to this epic battle that defines the major events and outcomes of the Lord of the Rings universe.
Notable Members
Member #
1
Aragorn
2
Frodo Baggins
3
Samwise Gamgee
4
Gandalf
5
Bilbo Baggins
6
Legolas
7
Gimli
8
Boromir
9
Pippin Took
10
Merry Brandybuck
Geography
To the west is the Shire, home to land-loving hobbits. Rolling green hills dotted with hobbit holes characterize this region, whose tranquility is in stark contrast to the menace of Middle-earth. Nearby Buckland, protected by Bucklebury Ferry, is also home to the brave Brandybucks.
Brave dwarves live in the eastern Lonely Mountain, also known as Erebor, whose mines hold untold riches in gems and precious metals. Beneath the mountains and further east are the vast caverns of Aglarond, known to the dwarves for their magnificent natural formations.
In the heart of Middle-earth, Rohan, famous for its vast meadows, lives the horse-loving Rohirim. Immediately to the east is Gondor, with its white stone cities and fertile lands bordering the Great River Anduin, renowned not only for its military prowess but also for its cultural and architectural grandeur. Surrounded by these disparate geographies, the free nations unite against the dark forces that threaten their home.
Legacy and Impact
Their impact is vast and extends beyond Tolkien's universe. These ordinary creatures, who showed extraordinary courage, significantly changed the perception of fantastic literature. Their roles paved the way for the exploration of complex themes of friendship, sacrifice and resilience in fantasy literature. Their lasting legacy, inspiring countless authors and filmmakers around the world, makes them an iconic symbol of unity and resistance against overwhelming odds.