Jewish History Under Roman Rule

The Roman Empire in the 1st Century CE was a model of power, using both military and cultural influence to expand its dominion. In Palestine, Roman rule was marked by corruption and tension, leading to a Jewish rebellion. The revolt began in 66 CE, fueled by Roman mismanagement and religious provocations. Despite initial successes, the Jewish rebels were eventually defeated by Roman forces led by Vespasian and Titus. The fall of Jerusalem in 70 CE had severe consequences, including the destruction of the Holy Temple and the rise of rabbinic Judaism.

What strategy did the Roman Empire use to expand its influence in the early 1st Century CE?

• Isolationism and self-sufficiency

• Economic sanctions and trade embargoes

• Military force and cultural integration

• Diplomatic negotiations and alliances

How did the local elite in Palestine benefit under Roman rule?

• Through Roman patronage

• By maintaining cultural isolation

• Through military alliances with Greece

• By opposing Roman laws

What was a significant factor that deepened social divisions in Jewish society under Roman rule?

• The spread of Roman religion

• The construction of Roman architecture

• The support of the local elite for Roman rule

• The introduction of Roman currency

What was a major consequence of the incompetence of Roman governors like Pontius Pilate in Palestine?

• Increased Jewish support for Roman rule

• Strengthening of Roman-Jewish relations

• Heightened tensions and unrest

• Economic prosperity in the region

What event marked the beginning of the Jewish Revolt in 66 CE?

• The signing of a peace treaty

• The construction of Roman temples

• The withdrawal of Roman troops

• A riot instigated by the Zealots

What action by the Romans further enraged the Jewish population during the revolt?

• Providing military protection

• Building new roads

• Erecting statues of Roman emperors

• Offering tax exemptions

What was the outcome of the Battle of Ben Horon?

• A peace agreement between both sides

• A stalemate with no clear winner

• A decisive Roman victory

• A Jewish victory over the Romans

What was the fate of the Jewish rebels after the Romans retook Judea?

• They were integrated into the Roman army

• They were granted amnesty

• They fled to Jerusalem

• They formed a new government

What was a significant consequence of the Siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE?

• The expansion of the Roman Empire

• The rise of rabbinic Judaism

• The rebuilding of the Holy Temple

• The establishment of a Jewish kingdom

What became the focal point of Jewish culture after the destruction of the Holy Temple?

• The Roman Senate

• The Greek theater

• The synagogue

• The Roman Forum