HistoryExtra podcast The devastating Jewish revolt against the Roman empire
17 snips
Mar 18, 2026 
Barry Strauss, Cornell historian and author of Jews vs. Rome, brings ancient warfare and politics to life. He traces the sparks and battles of the Great Revolt, the siege and destruction of the Second Temple, rebel strategies and fatal divisions. He also explores Rome’s harsh reprisals, the long aftermath and how Jewish identity endured.
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Rome Appeared Strong But Was Politically Fragile
- Rome looked powerful in 66 but was politically unstable under Nero with recent military humiliations and elite unrest.
- Strauss notes recent defeats to Parthia and domestic aristocratic opposition that weakened Nero's standing.
Florus's Corruption Ignited The Great Revolt
- The immediate spark for the Great Revolt was Governor Florus's corruption and brutality, including taking temple funds and massacring demonstrators.
- Riots in Caesarea and Florus's actions escalated violence, leading zealots to seize the temple and kill the Roman garrison.
Initial Roman Miscalculation Led To Heavy Losses
- Rome initially underestimated the revolt and deployed auxiliaries rather than legions, which failed against rebel ambushes.
- A successful rebel ambush in the Beit Haron valley destroyed most of a Roman legion, forcing Nero to send Vespasian.
