The Siege of Masada

Over a million people died during the siege of Masada. The Jewish leadership was fractured, and in fighting between the moderate and extreme elements led to a toxic atmosphere of mutual assassination and terrorist attacks. On April 16th, 73 AD though, the Romans finally broke down the gate with a battering ram,. To their surprise, found the entire population of Masada dead from an apparent mass murder suicide pact to avoid capture and slavery.