How did the Maccabean Revolt shape Jewish independence and identity? This book explores the Maccabean Revolt (167-160 BCE), a successful Jewish uprising against the Seleucid Empire, which led to the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty in Judea. It examines the religious, political, and cultural factors that fueled the revolt, including the imposition of Hellenistic practices by the Seleucid king Antiochus IV and the desire for Jewish religious freedom. The narrative discusses the key figures in the revolt, such as Judah Maccabee, and the lasting impact of the Hasmonean dynasty on Jewish history. By reflecting on the significance of the Maccabean Revolt, the book highlights how it contributed to the preservation of Jewish identity and the eventual creation of the state of Israel, as well as its influence on the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.