Long ago in Jerusalem, the greedy king Antiochus IV ordered his soldiers to steal treasures from the Holy Temple. When the Jews tried to protect the temple, the furious king had his army burn down their houses and take many of them to be slaves. The Jews were forbidden to pray to their God or follow their religious laws. Instead, they were forced to worship the Greek gods of Antiochus. But a brave young man named Judah led his people, the Maccabees, against Antiochus's soldiers. After fierce fighting, Judah and the Maccabees were victorious. The Holy Temple was dedicated once again to God and a great celebration was held-the very first Hanukkah.
