The Maccabees were a group of Jewish rebel warriors who led a successful revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. This uprising was primarily in response to the oppressive policies of King Antiochus IV, who sought to impose Hellenistic culture and religion on the Jewish people. The Maccabean Revolt ultimately resulted in the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the establishment of the Hasmonean dynasty. The most famous figure among the Maccabees is Judas Maccabeus, who emerged as a key leader during the revolt. The victory of the Maccabees is celebrated in the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, which commemorates the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the rededicated temple. Their legacy is significant in Jewish history, symbolizing resistance and the fight for religious freedom.