Atreus of Mycenae vs Jeroboam I

Atreus succeeded Eurystheus as king of Mycenae, establishing the Atreid dynasty. His reign marked the beginning of Mycenae's greatest period of power and influence in the Greek world.

Atreus and his brother Thyestes quarreled over the throne of Mycenae, with Thyestes seducing Atreus's wife and stealing the golden fleece that symbolized kingship. This feud led to a cycle of revenge.

Atreus, in revenge, killed Thyestes' sons and served them to their father at a banquet. This act of cannibalism cursed the House of Atreus and led to further tragedies.

Atreus was killed by Aegisthus, the surviving son of Thyestes, who had been raised in exile. Aegisthus then restored Thyestes to the throne, continuing the cycle of violence.

After Rehoboam refused to lighten the tax burden, the ten northern tribes proclaimed Jeroboam as their king at Shechem. This established the Kingdom of Israel, separate from the Kingdom of Judah, fulfilling the prophecy of Ahijah.

Jeroboam set up two golden calves, one at Bethel and one at Dan, as alternative worship sites to Jerusalem. He appointed non-Levitical priests and instituted festivals, leading to the establishment of a separate religious cult in Israel.

Jeroboam fought a prolonged war with Abijah, king of Judah. Abijah's forces defeated Jeroboam's army, capturing several cities including Bethel, Jeshanah, and Ephron. This weakened Jeroboam's kingdom and reduced his territory.