Alexander the Great's death and the division of his kingdom among his generals led to the rise of Antiochus Epiphanes. Antiochus's reign was marked by both soft and hard totalitarianism, with some Jews assimilating into Greek culture while others faced persecution for maintaining their faith.
Alexander the Great conquered the known world and divided his kingdom among his generals upon his death.
Antiochus Epiphanes emerged from Alexander's lineage and initiated the persecution of the Jews.
Some Jews adopted Greek customs and even removed the marks of circumcision to fit in, while others remained steadfast in their faith.