Also known as: Founder Of Rohan, Lord Of The Eotheod
The founder of the kingdom of Rohan and the first King of the Rohirrim, known as Eorl the Young because he was still a youth when he became lord of the Eotheod. In the year 2510 of the Third Age, the people of Gondor were assailed by Balchoth invaders and driven to the brink of defeat at the Field of Celebrant. Eorl led a great cavalry host southward unbidden, answering the need of Gondor at the last moment and routing the enemy. In gratitude, Steward Cirion of Gondor granted the Eotheod the land of Calenardhon, which became Rohan. Eorl swore the Oath of Eorl, pledging perpetual friendship and aid between Rohan and Gondor. This oath was fulfilled three thousand years later when Theoden rode to the Pelennor Fields. Eorl was eventually slain in battle against Easterlings on the plains of Rohan.