No, Gimli is not the last Dwarf of Middle-earth.
Gimli's Place Among His People
While Gimli, son of Glóin, became a renowned figure for his loyalty and bravery during the War of the Ring, it is important to note that his personal lineage did not determine the fate of his entire race. Although he had no children of his own, this fact did not mean he was the sole remaining Dwarf. The Dwarves, a resilient and enduring people, continued to thrive in Middle-earth long after the events chronicled in The Lord of the Rings.
Continued Existence of Dwarf Kingdoms
The Dwarven race maintained its presence and prosperity through various established kingdoms and communities:
- Erebor (The Lonely Mountain): This great Dwarf kingdom, restored to its former glory by Dáin Ironfoot and later ruled by his descendants, remained a vibrant center of Dwarf culture, craftsmanship, and population throughout the Fourth Age. It stood as a powerful symbol of their enduring strength.
- The Iron Hills: Renowned for their formidable warriors and rich mineral deposits, the Dwarves of the Iron Hills also continued their existence as a distinct and strong community.
- Other Dwarf Clans: While Erebor and the Iron Hills were prominent, various other Dwarf clans and communities were implied to persist in different mountain ranges and regions, ensuring the continuation of their people.
Gimli's journey ultimately led him to the Undying Lands, a unique honor for a Dwarf, but his departure did not signify the end of his people. The Dwarves, with their deep roots in stone and their unyielding spirit, continued to shape the history of Middle-earth for ages to come.
