Jewish history spans over 3,000 years, beginning with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in ancient Canaan. The Israelites, descendants of these patriarchs, formed a kingdom under King David and King Solomon, which later split into two kingdoms: Israel and Judah. The Babylonian exile in the 6th century BCE marked a significant turning point, leading to the development of Jewish religious texts and traditions. Throughout history, Jews faced various challenges, including persecution and displacement. The Roman Empire destroyed the Second Temple in 70 CE, leading to the Jewish diaspora. Despite hardships, Jewish communities thrived in various regions, contributing to culture, philosophy, and science, while maintaining their unique identity and traditions.