Harondor - The Battleground of the South

Summary

The video explores South Gondor, or Harondor, a historically significant region caught in battles between Gondor and the Southron peoples. It details the geography and history of Harondor, discussing its colonization by Numenorians, its strategic importance during the rise of Gondor, and the impacts of internal strife and external invasions. The narrative highlights the shifting control of the region, culminating in its eventual occupation by Haradrim during the reign of Steuart Turin II. Ultimately, the video underscores the rich yet tumultuous history of Harondor as a battleground in Middle Earth's saga.

Takeaways

• 🌍 South Gondor, also known as Hondor, is a significant historical region situated between the River Poros and the Anduin, characterized by frequent conflicts between Gondor and Southron peoples.
• 🗺️ The geography of Hondor is debated; it is described as either a desert or abandoned land, but its climate likely resembles that of Ailan, not a desert.
• 👥 Early inhabitants of Hondor were probably of Haradrim origin, and possibly pre-Númenorian men, while Nandor elves likely did not cross into the region.
• ⚔️ Hondor served as a buffer zone during Númenorian colonization, being located between the northernmost and southernmost ports of Númenorian factions.
• 🏰 The region saw significant military actions during the reign of Tarondor, the 12th King of Gondor, who expanded Gondor's territory into southern lands.
• 👑 The Kin Strife Civil War in Gondor, beginning in 1432, led to a decline in Gondor's control over Hondor, making it a battleground between various factions.
• 😷 The Great Plague in 1636 further weakened Gondor's grip on its territories, potentially including Hondor, as the region was deemed debatable.
• 🚢 King Tumar's attempt to reclaim Umbar in 1810 was short-lived, and subsequent invasions by Harad diminished Gondor's influence in the region.
• 🛡️ By the time of the War of the Ring, Gondor had no forces in Hondor, which became a staging area for Harad's military operations against Gondor.
• 📜 Despite its historical significance, the fate of Hondor remains uncertain after the War of the Ring, with its status as a former Gondorian province unclear.

Q & A

What is Harondor, and where is it located in Middle-earth?

Harondor, also known as South Gondor, is a region in Middle-earth situated between the Poros and Anduin Rivers. It extends from the Uath River in the east to the Bay of Belfalas in the west, and is divided by the Harad Road.

What historical significance does Harondor have in relation to Gondor?

Harondor became significant during the reign of Taron Fírien, the 12th king of Gondor, as it was conquered and integrated into Gondor's territory. It remained under Gondorian control for over 600 years, facilitating cultural exchange between Gondorians and Haradrim.

What ambiguity exists regarding the description of Harondor?

The description of Harondor as a desert or deserted region is ambiguous. Translations and interpretations vary, with some suggesting it was a land abandoned due to constant warfare, while geographical factors indicate it may have had a climate similar to Ailan.

How did Numenorians influence the region of Harondor?

Numenorians began colonizing the coastal regions of Middle-earth in the Second Age, and Harondor likely acted as a buffer zone between the two factions of Numenorian society, the faithful and the Black Numenorians.

What events led to the decline of Gondor's influence in Harondor?

The Kin-strife in 1432, where different factions within Gondor vied for power, weakened Gondor's control. Additionally, the Great Plague in 1636 prompted Gondor to withdraw its forces from outer territories, including Harondor.

What role did Harondor play during the War of the Ring?

During the War of the Ring, Harondor became a staging ground for Haradrim forces, with Gondor primarily focusing on defending the Anduin River. By this time, Harondor was not actively defended by Gondor.

What was the outcome of King Tumlad's campaign in 1810?

King Tumlad's campaign in 1810 resulted in the storming of Umbar and the defeat of the descendants of Castamir. However, this victory was short-lived, as the focus soon shifted to the eastern front, leading to the loss of Umbar.

How did the civil strife in Gondor affect Harondor?

The civil strife, particularly during the Kin-strife, caused Harondor to become a battleground as both Gondorian factions and Haradrim forces fought for control, leading to significant instability in the region.

What was the final status of Harondor by the reign of Turgon II?

By the reign of Turgon II, which began in 2882, Harondor was completely occupied by the Haradrim, with Gondor unable to retake the region despite efforts to defend its borders during subsequent invasions.

What insights does the video provide about the historical record of Harondor?

The video highlights the scarcity of detailed historical records regarding Harondor, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding its status during various conflicts and the overall lack of comprehensive information in Tolkien's canon.