Judas Maccabeus

Judas Maccabeus assumed leadership of the Jewish revolt against the Seleucid Empire after the death of his father Mattathias. He organized guerrilla warfare tactics, rallying Jewish rebels to fight against Antiochus IV's persecution and Hellenization policies.

Judas Maccabeus defeated a Seleucid army under General Seron at the Battle of Beth Horon. The victory boosted the morale of the Jewish rebels and demonstrated their ability to defeat larger, better-equipped forces.

Judas Maccabeus captured Jerusalem and purified the Second Temple, which had been desecrated by Antiochus IV. He rededicated the Temple to the Jewish God, an event commemorated by the festival of Hanukkah. This act restored Jewish religious worship.

Judas Maccabeus was killed in battle against a Seleucid army led by General Bacchides at Elasa. His death was a major setback for the revolt, but his brother Jonathan Apphus succeeded him and continued the struggle.