Meneldil was the first of Gondor's kings to rule in his own name, being the son of Anárion who had ruled together with his brother Isildur, the founders of the realm.

Upon Elendil and Anárion's deaths during the War of the Last Alliance, Isildur became the High King of both Gondor and Arnor.

Upon leaving for the North kingdom, Isildur committed the rule of the South kingdom to his nephew, Meneldil, to rule in his stead under the name of the High King.

Sadly, during Isildur's journey, he was slain at the Disaster at Gladden Fields and so the High King was gone. Meneldil then became the King of Gondor and was free to rule as he would. The rule of Arnor was passed to the only living son of Isildur who was but still a young child.

Since Sauron was seemingly vanquished after the war, Meneldil ruled during a time of peace, so little is known about his rule.

He ruled for 156 years and was at last succeeded by his son Cemendur.