History's Dumpster Fires

Part 5/6: War erupts in the East! Josephus is the star of this episode, being the primary historical source and an eyewitness to the Great Revolt aka The Jewish War. Josephus is appointed the general in charge of fortifying Galilee and getting the region prepared for the Romans inevitable return. He knows the Romans will attack there first, and he knows they will never give up after attacks on their army resulted in over 5,000 lives being lost. What was it like to be in a city besieged by the ancient Romans? Josephus is one of the few to survive under such circumstances and go on to write it all down.

Part 4/6: The Roman emperors Gaius (Caligula), Claudius, and Nero ended the Julio-Claudian dynasty. They were also very different, especially when it came to controlling the provinces. Things start to spiral out of control when Nero won't stop spending money. The Great Fire of Rome that consumes 75% of the city only makes it worse. Nero needs money and a war is coming, and his problems are just beginning.

Part 3/6: Tensions rise once Roman officials are now in charge of the province of Judaea. Roman Legates like Pontius Pilate have become infamous for their brutality and cruelty, but what was their motive?

Part 2/6: What will happen after Herod's death in 4 B.C.E.? Matt tells his version of the extraordinary events leading to Rome annexing Judaea, bringing the new province a step closer to "The Great Revolt".

Part 1/6: The ancient historian Josephus wrote his book "The Jewish War" depicting the events leading up to, during, and after this period which lasted from 66-73/74 AD/CE. Episode one covers the infamous "Herod the Great", or "Tyrant" depending on who you ask. Who was Herod and how is he linked to a revolt a century later? Matt tells his own version of the story to answer these questions.