Generally speaking, they were the most Hellenized portion of the Jewish population, and were on decent terms with the Romans.  
Originally called the Zadokites, this group formed around 100 BCE.  They traced their origins back to the selection of the descendants of Zadok to act as trustees of the Temple in Jerusalem.  Generally speaking, they were the most Hellenized portion of the Jewish population, and were on decent terms with the Romans.  However, their end was directly due to the Roman destruction of the Temple in 70 CE, since their school was an incidental casualty.  FTP, name this Jewish sect, most well known for their strict, legalistic interpretation of the law, and rejection of the concepts of resurrection and angels.
Originally called the Zadokites, this group formed around 100 BCE.  
Sadducees