1948 (May 14)
On May 14, 1948, Israel declares independence. This is the first time in 2900 years that Israel is both a sovereign and united nation. Israel became a divided country about 2900 years ago. The southern kingdom became known as Judah and included the city of Jerusalem. The northern kingdom retained the name of Israel. Assyria conquered and destroyed the northern kingdom about 2700 years ago. Judah lost its independence about 2600 years ago. The Maccabean Revolt led to a time, from 164 BC to 63 BC, in which the Jews in Jeusalem and in the surrounding area enjoyed a degree of autonomy, which some commentators regard as a time of sovereignty.
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