Josephus
Josephus was a first century Jew, who led troops in the rebellion against Rome (67-70 CE) before switching sides to fight for the Romans. His writings are among the most important that we possess regarding the Holy Land in the first century. At points (e.g., his telling about the Masada incident), his narratives are historically suspect. At other points (e.g., his descriptions of the temple), his writings give very important insight into life in the first century.
Josephus Home Page (external link)
Christian, Jewish & Classical Documents
10/05/05