Judea

At 33, after conquering the known world, Alexander the Great fell ill and was nearing death. When asked, "Who should succeed you?", he replied, "The best of them." Though clever, this answer sparked wars, as everyone believed themselves to be the 'best'.

Herod served Augustus well but was a ruthless tyrant to the people of Judea and even his own family.

Herod, arrogant and clad in noble purple robes, arrived with a sword at his side and surrounded by bodyguards. The sages of the Sanhedrin were too afraid to speak, fearing for their lives. Only the president, Shmaya, stood up to the tyrant, rebuking his fellow sages for allowing fear to silence them.

Queen Salome ruled with wisdom, choosing not to wage war but instead investing in a strong army, which kept enemies at bay. Her strategic diplomacy maintained a peaceful and prosperous Judea.