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After the death of Joshua, the Israelites were left without a central leader. This marks the beginning of the period of the Judges, where God raised up individuals to deliver Israel from oppression.

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1375 B.C.: Othniel becomes the first Judge

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1375 B.C.: Othniel becomes the first Judge

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Othniel, Caleb's nephew, becomes the first Judge of Israel. He delivers the Israelites from King Cushan-rishathaim of Aram Naharaim, bringing 40 years of peace.

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Ehud, a left-handed Benjamite, becomes the second Judge. He assassinates King Eglon of Moab and leads Israel to victory, securing 80 years of peace.

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Deborah, a prophetess and judge, along with military leader Barak, defeat the Canaanite army led by Sisera. This victory is celebrated in the Song of Deborah.

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God calls Gideon to deliver Israel from the Midianites. With only 300 men, Gideon defeats a vast army, demonstrating God's power and bringing 40 years of peace.

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1260 B.C.: Abimelech's brief and violent rule

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1260 B.C.: Abimelech's brief and violent rule

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Gideon's son Abimelech seizes power, killing his 70 brothers. His tyrannical three-year rule ends in violence, fulfilling Jotham's curse.

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Samson is born to Manoah and his wife after an angelic visitation. He is set apart as a Nazirite from birth and will begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines.

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Samson performs great feats of strength against the Philistines. However, his relationship with Delilah leads to his capture. In his final act, he brings down the temple of Dagon, sacrificing himself but killing many Philistines.

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A horrific event involving a Levite and his concubine leads to a civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the rest of Israel, nearly wiping out the Benjamites.

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Jephthah, initially an outcast, becomes a Judge and defeats the Ammonites. However, his rash vow leads to a tragic outcome involving his daughter.