Jeroboam I was the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel after the kingdom split around 930 BCE. He was originally an official under King Solomon, but he became a leader of the rebellion against Solomon's son, Rehoboam. Jeroboam established his reign in Shechem and is known for creating two golden calves as objects of worship to prevent his people from returning to Jerusalem. His reign lasted for 22 years, during which he focused on consolidating power and establishing a distinct identity for the northern tribes. Jeroboam's actions, particularly his religious reforms, had lasting impacts on the history of Israel, leading to significant divisions within the Hebrew nation.