Historical Background
As we study the book of Joshua, we can't help but think about the current situation in the same geographical area and the long history leading up to it. After Joshua, Israel enjoyed dominion over the land during the monarchy, even though they were soon divided. However, since the defeat of the northern tribes of Israel by the Assyrians, and the defeat of the southern tribes of Judah by the Babylonians, the Jewish nation has never had the same dominion over the land that was given to them at the time of Joshua. Even though some returned from exile to rebuild the temple and the walls of Jerusalem, it was a sad attempt to regain their previous status as a powerful independent nation. The Jews were under submission to foreign powers up until the time of Christ, when the Roman empire extended throughout most of Europe and the Mediterranean countries. A final blow was given in 70 AD, when the Romans destroyed the temple and the city of Jerusalem. At that time, many migrated to Europe and North Africa.
In 70 AD, when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem
When they were defeated and taken into exile by the Assyrians and the Babylonians
Shortly after Joshua died
