The First Jewish–Roman War (66–74 CE) marked a significant conflict between Judean Jews and the Roman Empire. Tensions, fueled by oppressive Roman rule, tax disputes, and religious clashes, ignited in 66 CE during Emperor Nero's reign. The theft of funds from Jerusalem's Second Temple and arrests of Jewish leaders by the Roman governor, Gessius Florus, sparked a rebellion. Jewish rebels captured Jerusalem's Roman garrison, driving away pro-Roman figures including King Herod Agrippa II.

The Roman response, led by Governor of Syria Cestius Gallus, initially saw successes like conquering Jaffa but suffered a major defeat at the Battle of Beth Horon, where the Jewish rebels inflicted heavy losses on the Romans. A provisional government was established in Jerusalem, with notable leaders including Ananus ben Ananus and Josephus.

Roman Emperor Nero tasked General Vespasian with crushing the rebellion. Vespasian, with his son Titus and King Agrippa II's forces, launched a campaign in Galilee in 67, capturing key Jewish strongholds. The conflict escalated in Jerusalem due to internal strife among Jewish factions.

In 69, Vespasian became emperor, leaving Titus to besiege Jerusalem, which fell in 70 CE after a brutal seven-month siege marked by Zealot infighting and severe food shortages. The Romans destroyed the Temple and much of Jerusalem, leaving the Jewish community in disarray.

The war concluded with Roman victories at remaining Jewish strongholds, including Masada (72–74 CE). The conflict had a devastating effect on the Jewish population, with many killed, displaced, or enslaved, and led to the destruction of the Temple and significant political and religious upheaval.