He was the second son of Elendil and the brother of Isildur. Together with his brother he set out from Arnor at his fathers bidding to found the realm of Gondor in the south of Middle-earth.
He founded the cities Minas Anor (later renamed Minas Tirith), and Osgiliath.
In the War of the Last Alliance of Elves and Men he defended Gondor until Elendil, Isildur and Gil-galad summoned him to take part in the campaign into Mordor. He fought with distinction in the Battle of Dagorlad and in the Siege of Barad-dūr in which he fell (3340 SA).
Although his line was not destined to rule, his son Meneldil became King of Gondor.