The obscure regions

[Mänwe]

In addition to the differences between the two regions, there are a number of references to the peoples of Khand and Harad,

It becomes clear that there are various races that dwelt in the region known as “Harad”, and not all of those were men.

“He now was destroyed; but Gothmog the lieutenant of Morgul had flung them into the fray; Easterlings with axes, and Variags of Khand. Southrons in scarlet, and out of Far Harad black men like half-trolls with white eyes and red tongues.” – (Chapter 6, Battle of the Pelennor Fields.)

Despite this reference to a race of half-trolls, whether they were indeed a breed of men and trolls or whether it was just their appearance that warranted the description, is debatable. It is obvious that the majority of folk were ‘men’, as we know them.

“It was night again ere news came. A man rode in haste from the fords, saying that a host had issued from Minas Morgul and was already drawing nigh to Osgiliath; and it had been joined by regiments from the South, Haradrim, cruel and tall.” – (Chapter 4, Siege of Gondor)

Two leaders Fuirin and Herumor who were of Númenorean descent would I think be closest to their appearance. I should imagine that the apparent desolation and desert terrain, their skins would have been darker than most; no doubt the reason for the “black men”.

Variags I doubt differed much from the Haradrim, a barbarous in nature and nomadic people. Apart from differences in appearance one might suggest that there was a different skill base in these people during war.

The Haradrim appear to have a great like for being on mount, whether horses or mûmakil.

"Southward beyond the road lay the main force of the Haradrim, and there their horsemen were gathered about the standard of their chieftain." - (Chapter 6, Battle of the Pelennor Fields.)

“…and from the southward fields came footmen of Harad with horsemen before them, and behind them rose the huge backs of the mûmakil with war-towers upon them.” - (Chapter 6, Battle of the Pelennor Fields.)

Always present are horsemen. While there are no mention of any horses in the forces of the Variag and Easterling peoples.