**Biography**
Justin Martyr was a Christian apologist and philosopher who lived in the 2nd century AD. He was born in Flavia Neapolis (modern-day Nablus) in Roman Palestine around 100 AD. Justin was a pagan philosopher before converting to Christianity. He wrote several works defending the Christian faith, including the First Apology and the Second Apology.
**Early Life and Conversion**
Justin was born into a wealthy pagan family. He studied philosophy in Alexandria, Egypt, and became a follower of Stoicism. However, he was dissatisfied with Stoicism and began searching for a more fulfilling philosophy. After studying with various philosophers, Justin converted to Christianity around 130 AD.
**Defense of the Christian Faith**
Justin was one of the first Christian apologists, writing works to defend the Christian faith from criticism and persecution. He argued that Christianity was not a new religion but rather a continuation of the Jewish faith. He also defended Christianity against accusations of atheism, immorality, and sedition.
**First Apology**
Justin's First Apology was written around 155 AD and addressed to the Roman emperor Antoninus Pius. In this work, Justin defended Christianity against accusations of atheism, immorality, and disloyalty to the emperor. He argued that Christians were peaceful and law-abiding citizens who posed no threat to the Roman Empire.
**Second Apology**
Justin's Second Apology was written around 156 AD and addressed to the Roman Senate. In this work, Justin defended Christianity against accusations of sedition and sorcery. He argued that Christians were not a threat to the Roman Empire and that they were being persecuted unjustly.
**Death**
Justin was martyred in Rome around 165 AD during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. He was arrested and executed along with six of his companions. Justin's martyrdom is recorded in the Acts of Justin Martyr, which was written by an unknown author.
**Legacy**
Justin Martyr was an important figure in the early development of Christianity. His writings helped to defend the Christian faith from criticism and persecution. He also helped to establish the Christian tradition of apologetics, which continues to be practiced today.
