Dwarves believe that they were created by the god Moradin out of gemstones and precious metals and then granted the breath of life. However, soon after their creation they were enslaved by the giant race and forced to work as miners and builders. The dwarves eventually gained their freedom and maintain a hatred of giants to this day.
To a dwarf, family and clan are the most important consideration in his life. A dwarven poet caused riots in the streets of Hammerfast for simply suggesting that two dwarf lovers would consider defying their families, even though they ultimately rejected the idea. Among other races, dwarves are often seen as brusk and blunt, a trait that does not endear them to many people.