Justin Martyr was an early Christian apologist and philosopher born around 100 AD in Flavia Neapolis, present-day Nablus, Palestine. He is best known for his writings that defended Christianity against pagan criticisms and sought to explain the faith to a broader audience. His works, such as the "First Apology" and "Second Apology," addressed the Roman Emperor and highlighted the moral teachings of Christianity. Martyr was martyred around 165 AD for his beliefs, making him one of the earliest Christian martyrs. His contributions laid the groundwork for later Christian thought and apologetics, influencing figures like Tertullian and Origen. Today, he is recognized as a saint in various Christian traditions.