Timeline of the Ages
The history of the world from the Music of the Ainur to the Dominion of Men. Choose an age to see its events in order, each linked to the people, figure or place it concerns.
Before time
Before Arda: the Music of the Ainur
The making of the Ainur by Eru Ilúvatar, the Great Music in which the history of the world was foreshadowed, and the entry of the Valar into Eä to shape Arda.
Uncounted years
Years of the Lamps
Arda lit by the two great Lamps, Illuin and Ormal. The Valar dwelt at Almaren until Melkor threw down the Lamps and the shape of the world was marred.
Y.T. 1 to 1500 (Valian years)
Years of the Trees
The Valar withdraw to Aman and Yavanna raises the Two Trees. The Elves awaken at Cuiviénen, the Great Journey is made, and the age ends with the darkening of Valinor and the flight of the Noldor.
c. 590 years of the Sun
First Age
The rising of the Sun and Moon, the awakening of Men, and the long wars of Beleriand against Morgoth, ending in the War of Wrath and the drowning of Beleriand.
3441 years
Second Age
The rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, the founding of Arnor and Gondor, and the Last Alliance that overthrew Sauron.
3021 years
Third Age
The waning of the Elves and the Dúnedain, the return of Sauron, the quest of Erebor and the War of the Ring, ending with the departure of the Ring-bearers over the Sea.
The Age of Men
Fourth Age
The Reunited Kingdom under King Elessar and the Dominion of Men; the last Elves fade or sail West.