Socrates

Socrates was not only one of the most famous and influential philosophers in human history, but also the first martyr for his ideas. The trial that condemned him exposes how the largest democracy of the time could push its best citizens to death. Athens, 399 BC. In what could be considered the first trial for crimes of opinion, Socrates is sentenced to death. Accused of corrupting the youth and denying the gods of the city, the philosopher deploys an uncompromising and provocative defense. However, a majority of the jury urges him to go to prison and drink hemlock. Once imprisoned, while awaiting his execution surrounded by his friends and disciples, he refuses to escape so as not to violate the laws to which he has always been devoted.