It appears to me that the rise of the power of Númenor did coincide with their imperialism, their quest for domination. I think that perhaps they may have expanded had not they took such a big hit in the downfall of Númenor and the huge fleet that sailed to Aman. That's the loss of a lot of manpower. However, these were basically the Kings Men who were more of the conquering type than with the Faithful which is probably why even when Gondor became like Númenor in Middle-earth when its power waxed they were not pushing south or east, except of course the Ship-kings who took Umbar, and "the kings of Harad did homage to Gondor, and their sons lived as hostages in the court of its King." [Appendix A]
"their own land seemed to them shrunken, and they had no rest or content therein, and they desired now wealth and dominion in Middle-earth... Great harbours and strong towers they made, and there many of them took up their abode; but they appeared now rather as lords and masters and gatherers of tribute than as helpers and teachers." [Sil., Akallabêth, p. 329]
In this quote were are told how before they were helpers, where they instructed Men how to grow and build things and were seen as gods. Although in Unfinished Tales it is said how when they first returned around 2nd Age 600 the Middle Men did see that they shared a kinship with the High Men.
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Originally Posted by Zigûr
For what purpose? This is treating the situation like a game.
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Erendis spoke of the Men of Númenor:
"Anger they show only when they become aware, suddenly, that there are other wills in the world besides their own. They will be as ruthless as the seawind if anything dare to withstand them... Númenor was to be a rest after war. But if they weary of rest and the plays of peace, soon they will go back to their great play, manslaying and war." [Aldarion and Erendis, Part 2, ch. 2, p. 216-217]
It appears, at least in her view, that the Men of Númenor do hold it in some degree as sport, or a game. There has been mention of warlike lines among the nobles where it concerns the High Men.