Jeroboam

Jeroboam, 2 kings of ancient Israel. Jeroboam I (r. 922–909 B.C.) led the rebellion of the northern tribes of Judea after King Solomon died, which resulted in Israel and Judah splitting into separate kingdoms. He restored Jewish shrines at Bethel and Dan, thus releasing the people from their obligation to make pilgrimages to the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the capital of Judah. Jeroboam II (r. 785–745 B.C.) ruled during a time when Israel was a political and economic power, despite widespread corruption.

See also: Israel.