The Second Temple Period refers to the time in Jewish history from 516 BCE, when the second temple was completed in Jerusalem, until 70 CE, when the Romans destroyed it. This era is significant for the development of Jewish religious practices, the emergence of various sects like the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the compilation of important texts, including parts of the Hebrew Bible. During this period, the Jewish people experienced various political changes, including Persian, Greek, and Roman rule. The Maccabean Revolt (167-160 BCE) led to a brief period of independence, known as the Hasmonean Dynasty. The Second Temple Period laid the foundation for modern Judaism and influenced early Christianity.