As a moral exemplar, Socrates is regarded by many philosophers as ranking at the same level with the Buddha and Jesus Christ. As the Buddha sacrificed his princely comfort to bring enlightenment to mankind, and as Jesus sacrificed his life to redeem human beings, Socrates decided to face death to protect truth and virtue. Socrates wrote nothing and little is known of his life. We know about him through second-hand sources. Like all revered past figures, the story of his life is a mixture of myths and facts. You can read about his life here, and if you are academically inclined you can read a long and professionally written article here. Below is the famous painting of the last moment before his execution. If you want to know about this painting go here.