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Jeroboam I was the first king of the northern Kingdom of Israel in the 10th century BCE. He was initially an overseer under King Solomon but fled to Egypt after incurring Solomon's suspicion. Upon Solomon's death, Jeroboam returned and led the northern tribes in rebellion against Rehoboam, Solomon's son, leading to the division of the united monarchy into two kingdoms: Israel in the north and Judah in the south.12

To prevent his subjects from worshipping at the Jerusalem temple in Judah, Jeroboam established religious centers at Bethel and Dan, promoting the worship of golden bulls. This action was later condemned by biblical historians as a major religious failing. Despite initial setbacks, Jeroboam's reign saw the establishment of Israel as a distinct kingdom, though it faced ongoing conflict with Judah.12

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