Life started changing in ancient Israel. Greek statues appeared in Jerusalem. Jews played Greek games in the streets. This happened because Alexander the Great took over Israel around 329 BCE.
He was one of the greatest warriors ever. Over the centuries, first Greeks and then Romans would rule Israel. Some outside emperors let the ancient Hebrews practice their religion. But the people were often treated badly because of their faith. Some Jews fought back. That included brave men like Judah Maccabee and Simon bar Kokhba. But the Roman rulers had more soldiers and more time.
