On his death around 967 BC, King David was succeeded by his son Solomon. After executing or banishing his opponents, Solomon set about consolidating the kingdom his father had left him. His realm was divided into twelve administrative districts, each paying a yearly tribute.
He strengthened political and commercial ties with his neighbours. The daughter of the Egyptian Pharaoh was given as wife to Solomon; and the Phoenician city-states gave craftsmen and raw materials for Solomon's building projects, including the construction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
Solomon acquired a reputation for wisdom, and, with his preference for diplomatic tact over military power, he achieved peace for the people of Israel, after centuries of war.
