Josephus, a first century Jew of the priestly and royal class, participated in the First Jewish-Roman War, was captured by the Romans, eventually gained favor with Vespasian, obtained freedom, and went on to chronicle the Judaic historical tradition from Creation to the destruction of the Second Temple. His War of the Jews begins with the taking of Jerusalem by Antiochus Epiphanes (c. 169 B.C.) and proceeds to events just after the fall of Masada to the Romans (circa A.D. 73). It is invaluable for providing cultural context to the New Testament. Image above links to online library of Josephus’ works. ISBN recommendation: 0-8254-2952-8