That's a good question. I've never been too sure myself.
*Goes and looks up Robert Foster's Guide*
It says here:
Quote:
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Dark Years The years of Sauron's great and almost undisputed domination of Middle-earth, during which many peoples were enslaved or corrupted. The Dark Years lasted from c. SA 1000, when Sauron settled in Mordor, to 3441, when he was overthrown by the Last Alliance. During this period Sauron built the Barad Dūr, forged the Rings of Power, and won the War of the Elves and Sauron.
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Hope that helps somewhat. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]
If anyone wants to dispute this, feel free.