Justin Martyr, a philosopher-turned-Christian, wrote his "First Apology" around 155 AD, during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius. Born in Flavia Neapolis, a city in ancient Samaria, Justin was well-versed in Greek philosophy and became a Christian after encountering a elderly Christian man who introduced him to the teachings of Christ. His conversion led him to travel extensively, preaching and defending Christianity, which ultimately resulted in his martyrdom in Rome around 165 AD.