First Era

Lore & Background

The First Era began as the first waves of Nords and other human tribes arrived in Tamriel, clashing with the established Elven populations. In Skyrim, Ysgramor led the Five Hundred Companions to reclaim ancestral lands from the giants and elves, establishing the Kingdom of Skyrim and its enduring warrior culture. Simultaneously, across the continent, humans sought freedom from the Ayleid Dragon Cult in Cyrodiil, a struggle that defined the early political boundaries of the region. Queen Alessia emerged as a central figure during this time, leading a rebellion against the Ayleid masters with the aid of divine powers. Her victory resulted in the founding of the First Empire and the lighting of the Dragonfires to protect Tamriel from Daedric invasion. However, the subsequent Alessian Empire eventually fractured due to religious extremism and internal strife, leaving the province vulnerable once more. The era's final chapter was marked by fragmentation until Tiber Septim rose to power. Through military genius and political maneuvering, he conquered the warring kingdoms of Tamriel. His ascension signaled the end of the First Era, transitioning history into a new age where Men held undisputed sovereignty over the continent.

In Their Own Story

Snow swirled around the ancient stone giants carved into the cliffside, silent witnesses to a forgotten age. The Nord warrior tightened his grip on the notched axe, staring at the distant peaks where dragons were said to still sleep. Ysgramor's legacy was not just in the stones, but in the fire that burned in their hearths against the encroaching dark of the Ayleid masters. He whispered a prayer to Shor, knowing this land would one day belong to Men. The wind howled through the Throat of the World, carrying the scent of pine and old blood. In the distance, a horn blew, signaling the start of another raid against the southern kingdoms.

Reader's Guide

The First Era begins as Men migrate from Atmora and Tamriel's coasts, challenging the ancient Aldmeri Dominion. This age is defined by the struggle for sovereignty, marked by Ysgramor leading Nord warriors to Skyrim and establishing the Five Hundred Companions. Simultaneously in Cyrodiil, Queen Alessia leads a rebellion against the Ayleid Dragon Cult, forging the first human Empire with divine aid. Throughout this millennium, Tamriel fractures into warring kingdoms like High Rock and Hammerfell. The Alessian Order eventually collapses due to religious fanaticism, leaving Cyrodiil vulnerable to civil war and foreign invasion. The era concludes when Tiber Septim rises through conquest and diplomacy to unify the continent under a single banner. His victory ends the First Era, resetting the calendar for the Second Era as the foundation of the Imperial City solidifies Men's dominance over the Elves. This transition sets the stage for future dynasties and the eventual rise of the Dragonborn in later ages.

Did You Know?

• The Amulet of Kings was forged during this era to bind the Emperor to the Dragonfires.
• Ysgramor is legendary for leading his people from Atmora to found Skyrim.
• Tiber Septim's conquest marked the official end of the First Era timeline.