The Trial and Death of Socrates

What happened

The philosopher Socrates was tried in Athens on charges of impiety and 'corrupting the youth,' condemned, and executed by drinking hemlock. His final days are recorded in the dialogues of his student Plato.

Why it matters

Socrates' method of relentless questioning and his death for his principles made him the founding figure — and first martyr — of Western philosophy.

Sources

• World History Encyclopedia. Socrates · Reputable source