Significant Archaeological Find in Jerusalem...or Was It "Aelia Capitolina?"

[Minimalist]

http://www.timesofisrael.com/rare-roman-...jerusalem/

Rare Roman monument bearing Hadrian’s name found in Jerusalem
Massive limestone slab dedicated to emperor’s 130 CE visit discovered at construction site, pinpoints date of city’s reconstruction

History records that the Xth Legion was assigned to garrison duty in Jerusalem after the Great Revolt was crushed in 70. We further know that under the command of Lucius Flavius Silva they were responsible for capturing Masada and ending the war in 73.

Since the region was generally quiet between 73 and 132 the Xth, after building their own camp, would have had little to do and this stone suggests that they busied themselves in some urban renewal projects.
This was a common tactic among Roman commanders. Kept the troops out of trouble.

[Anomalocaris]

It is also a hearts and minds campaign to show Roman troops can work for you as well as kill you, you can be a living part of Pax Romana, or Pax Romana will be built on your land over your grave, your choice.

The Jews chose poorly, I must say. 130CE was close to the end of their tenure in what had been Jerualam.

Also, if the Legions had done a better job demolishing the temple mount, and replacing it completely with a Roman temple, perhaps much of the grief and bloodshed of 20 centuries late might have been attenuated.

[Minimalist]

Yes it was, and they did bring it on themselves. The whole thing began long before when Antiochus IV made a decision to support Hellenized Jews against the rabble. He went off to fight the Parthians and was doing quite well until he got sick and died in 164 BC. The commanders he left in charge were not quite of the same quality but Antiochus was not around to see the result.

The process of Hellenization was picked up again by the Romans and Herod but it was Hadrian who really wanted to put it into hyperdrive. They rebelled again, got crushed again, and this time were evicted from the area.

Tough titties. Not a good idea to piss off the emperor.