Flavius Josephus, a first century Jewish scholar and historian wrote four extant works:

1. The Jewish War. (Jewish Revolt) 75 AD – The first revolt against the Romans from 66-73 AD
2. The Antiquities of the Jews. 95 AD – From Adam to the death of Herod’s sons
3. Against Apion. 97 AD – A defense of Judaism
4. Vita or The Life of Flavius. 99 AD – Biography

These works provide significant source material and insight into first-century Judaism and Christianity.

Josephus was born into the Jewish priesthood on his father’s side and of Hasmonean royal descent maternally. He served in the Jewish military during the Jewish War but surrendered to the Romans and he was considered a traitor to Jews ever after. While waiting to be executed by the Romans he predicted that Vespasian would eventually be crowned emperor of Rome. Vespasian, because of the prophecy, spared his life and made him a consultant, but still a slave, to the Roman army. Josephus gained his freedom when Vespasian became emperor in 69 AD, at which time he changed his name to Flavius Josephus. Flavius was the family name of the emperor Vespasian.

Source: Josephus: The Complete Works, 2003. Jewish Virtual Library. World History Encyclopedia.