Union of Maedhros

The Union of Maedhros was an attempt by Maedhros, son of Fëanor, to unite Elves, Dwarves, and Men against Morgoth. Maedhros was influenced by the deeds of Beren and Lúthien taking a Silmaril from Morgoth's iron crown. He did succeed in uniting the three kindreds in war against Morgoth. When the Nirnaeth Arnoediad broke out, this union marched to war. It looked as though the elves might have won, but Ulfang the Black, a traitor from the race of Men, turned on Maedhros and attacked him. Maedhros was able to kill the Easterlings, as they were called afterward, but he was driven back. Therefore he could not reach the hosts of Fingon, Húrin, and Huor, and had to retreat. Unfortunately, Fingon and Huor were slain in the remainder of the battle, and Húrin was captured. The Union dissolved soon after the battle.