Assassination of Socrates

Socrates, the ancient Greek philosopher, was not assassinated in the traditional sense but was sentenced to death by drinking poison hemlock in 399 BC. He was accused of corrupting the youth of Athens and impiety, primarily because his teachings challenged established beliefs. Rather than escape or recant, Socrates chose to accept his fate, believing in the importance of living according to one’s principles. His trial and execution sparked debates on morality, democracy, and the role of the individual in society, influencing philosophy and ethics for centuries to come.