Middle-earth is a fictional setting created by J.R.R. Tolkien in his works, including The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. It is a richly detailed world inhabited by various races such as Elves, Dwarves, Men, and Hobbits. The history of Middle-earth spans thousands of years, marked by significant events like the rise and fall of Sauron and the quest for the One Ring. The timeline of Middle-earth is divided into several ages, with the Third Age being the most prominent in Tolkien's narratives. Key events include the War of the Ring, the founding of Gondor, and the eventual departure of the Elves to the Undying Lands. This history is chronicled in various texts, including the Silmarillion, which provides deeper insights into the creation and early events of Middle-earth.