Who continued the oppressive practices and instigated the division between the northern and southern kingdoms?

The correct answer is Rehoboam, who played a crucial role in the division between the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel. Following the death of King Solomon, Rehoboam ascended to the throne. When the people came to him seeking relief from the heavy taxes and forced labor that had been imposed by Solomon, Rehoboam sought counsel on how to respond.

He initially consulted older, wiser advisors who recommended that he lighten the burdens of the people to gain their loyalty. However, he ultimately chose to ignore this advice and instead listened to his peers, who advised him to increase the oppression, telling the people that he would make their burdens even heavier than his father did. This response led to widespread discontent and ultimately the rebellion of the ten northern tribes, who rejected Rehoboam's kingship and established Jeroboam as their leader, thus creating the split between the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah.

The actions and attitudes of Rehoboam solidified the rift and set the stage for the distinct identities and trajectories of the two kingdoms that followed, making him pivotal in this significant historical moment.