Guy Maclean Rogers, a classicist historian and author of 'For the Freedom of Zion,' delves into the tumultuous Great Jewish Revolt of 70 AD. He discusses the rising tensions in Judea, highlighting Rome's mismanagement and the devastating siege of Jerusalem, which led to the destruction of the Second Temple. Rogers also sheds light on the contradictory accounts of historian Josephus, the political dynamics of the region, and the cultural significance of the revolt, emphasizing its lasting impact on Jewish identity and interfaith relations.
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Living History
The Great Jewish Revolt has present-day significance unlike the Peloponnesian War.
The revolt's impact continues to resonate due to the destruction of the temple and strained intergroup relations.
insights INSIGHT
Underlying Tensions
Tensions simmered for decades before the Great Jewish Revolt.
These tensions stemmed from cultural and religious clashes between various groups.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Spark
A Greek man's sacrifice near a synagogue in Caesarea ignited the revolt.
The Roman governor, Gessius Florus, further inflamed tensions by seizing temple funds, leading to a massacre.
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This book provides a deeply researched and insightful examination of the causes, course, and historical significance of the Jews' failed revolt against Rome. It argues that the Jewish rebels fought for religious and political freedom but lost due to military mistakes. The book explores how the Roman victory in the war ultimately led to a long-term Jewish victory through their adherence to written religious texts.
For the Freedom of Zion
Guy Maclean Rogers
This book provides an exhaustive narrative of the First Jewish-Roman War, focusing on the events leading up to the conflict, the war itself, and its aftermath. It explores the complex historical context, including the roles of key figures like Flavius Josephus and the Roman emperors Vespasian and Titus.
70 AD. Tens of thousands of Roman troops surround Jerusalem. What follows is one of the most brutal sieges in ancient history—and the dramatic climax of the Great Jewish Revolt.
In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Guy Maclean Rogers to uncover the full story of this epic uprising against Rome. From its origins in rising tensions and religious strife to the devastating siege and destruction of the Second Temple, discover how this revolt shaped the ancient world and continues to resonate today.
For more on The Great Jewish Revolt listen to our episode on Masada:
Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.
All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds
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