History of the Jews: Volume I

In History of the Jews, Heinrich Graetz examines the origins and ascent of Judaism and the Jewish people in ancient times.

Graetz's sources include the holy ancient texts and the surviving historical manuscripts of the period in which Judaism commenced and grew in terms of both its adherents and regional influence. Researching the subject meticulously, Graetz produces an evocative and readable account of the Jewish peoples from the earliest times. Figures such as King David, King Solomon, the Prophet Elijah, to name but a few, receive extensive biographic retelling of their roles in Jewish society.

This volume of Graetz's comprehensive work chronologically examines the beginnings of Judaism, and its rise toward a distinct cultural identity during the iron age. Events such as the unification of the various tribes, the reign of the prominent kings, and the rise and fall of the Houses of David and Jehu are detailed, each receiving a distinct chapter.

After we depart the period of the kings with the Destruction, the Babylonian Exile is examined. After the founding of communities anew in Judea, the rivalry between the Jews and the Samaritans follows. The final chapters focus upon the life of Judas Maccabeus and the actions of the Judeans in Alexandria and wider Egypt.

This edition of Graetz's History of the Jews contains his original notes, appended at the conclusion of the volume.