Easterling (Races Help)

Easterlings are Men who live beyond the Sea of Rhûn, far from the Western lands of the Eldar. They periodically band together to overrun their foes with vast barbaric hordes, particularly Gondor with whom they have a savage history. The southern kingdom has often felt the wrath of mighty, chariot-riding Easterling forces and their mutual hatred remains to this day. Rather than being a single nation, Easterlings are a loose collective of several different cultures, although they are generally identifiable by their swarthy complexions, dark hair, and darker eyes.

Recently, Sauron has called them to serve in his armies against the Free Races. Eager for another chance to trample Gondor, these strong, hearty Men, hardened by their time in far-off eastern lands, have taken up Sauron's banner. As excellent warriors and riders, they are a key force in the Dark Lord's battle plan.

The Easterling tongue is widespread throughout the eastern lands, making it a well-known language frequently employed as common speech.