Similar to 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles is the history of the Israelites retold from the perspective of the prophet Ezra. This book begins with the reign of King Solomon and the subsequent division of Israel into the northern and southern tribes. The latter, who were led by King Solomon's son, Rehoboam, and their continued waywardness, are the focuses of these passages, as well as the eventual overthrow of the Israelites by the Assyrians and the Babylonians. 2 Chronicles was an important reminder of the history of the Jews and the events which had led up to their captivity, so that future generations would not repeat their mistakes.