The Greeks under the leadership of Alexander the Great take control of Judah. (jan 1, 331 BC – jan 1, 165 BC)

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The Greeks force Greek ways and culture upon the Jews as well as all the areas the Greeks conquered.
Many Jews learn the Greek language and translate the Hebrew bible into Greek. This results in the spread of Jewish ideas around the Mediterranean - this is an example of cultural diffusion. (This is a term that we have covered much in class.)
In 165 BCE after many battles against the Seleucids/Syrians (After death of Alexander, his empire breaks up and this group is now in control of Judah), a Jewish group called the Maccabeus successfully revolted against their rule. After kicking out the Seleucids, destroy the statues of the Greek gods that were placed in the Great Temple and rededicate it to the worship of their God. Jews celebrate this event with the holiday of Hanukkah.

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