He was probably born about 469 B.C., although few facts about his life are certain. He was homely, and completely indifferent to worldly goods. He never sought political office, but he believed that a good citizen could not refuse public duty. His bravery was tested both in war and in public life. He said that he did not teach, and yet his teachings wielded considerable influence. He possessed remarkable self-control, and unwaveringly pursued truth and virtue as the real path of happiness. He was tried, condemned, and sentenced to death in Athens in 399 B.C. He has been immortalized by Plato, and by others. His name is Socrates, and some have called him the wisest man that ever lived.

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