After Moria Fell: The Diaspora and Reconquest of the Dwarves in Middle-earth
The fall of Moria was a tragic event, with the last of the dwarves who fought there perishing. This, combined with the threat of spies from Sauron, ensured that none of the dwarves managed to pass through the Moria Gates. From this point forward, the dwarves faced widespread diaspora across Middle-earth.
The Settlements of Dwarves
Following the fall of Moria, the dwarven communities scattered and established new homes across Middle-earth. One of the largest settlements was in Erebor - the Lonely Mountain in Rhovanion. This location, along with the Iron Hills, became the two predominant dwarven settlements. Additionally, some dwarves ventured further west into Eriador, settling in the Blue Mountains. It is mentioned that The Hobbit features sightings of dwarves on the road around the time of Bilbo Baggins' journey.
Erebor's fall led to a reincarnation of their presence in the region. The Blue Mountains and the Iron Hills remained the largest dwarvish settlements until the recapture of Erebor and eventually, the retaking of Moria.
Recolonization of Moria
Balin, one of Bilbo's companions, returned from the Lonely Mountain to attempt the recolonization of the mines. Despite initial success, his clan was eventually overpowered by orcs, leading to their downfall in the same spot where their ancestors had fallen. This event marked a significant setback in the dwarven quest to reclaim Moria.
The Blue Mountains and Beyond
Even during the reign of Morgoth, dwarves were present in their underground fortresses and great cities such as Nogrod and Belegost within the Blue Mountains. These cities, situated in valleys with the best passageways between Beleriand and Eriador, were destroyed at the end of the First Age. Many dwarves chose to migrate either to Moria or to the Blue Mountains, following the sundering of Middle-earth.
After the battle at the 5 Armies, Dain II Ironfoot became the new King Under the Mountain, ruling over Erebor. As a result, Thorin's followers, led by Balin, left Erebor to reopen Moria. However, their efforts led to the awakening of Durin's Bane, which brought about their downfall. Following Dain's death and the subsequent defeat of Sauron, Gimli, with the help of Legolas, established a new settlement in the Glittering Caves of the White Mountains in Rohan. This location, rich in minerals and possessing great beauty, offered a new home for the dwarves.
In summary, the fall of Moria led to a significant reorganization and redistribution of the dwarven population across Middle-earth. From the ruins of the Lonely Mountain to the deep recesses of Moria and the majestic Blue Mountains, the fate of the dwarves is a brilliant blend of resilience and persistence in the face of overwhelming challenges.