Hypereides, the orator, was born in 390 BC into a wealthy family and was educated close to Plato and Isocrates. In 343, accusing Philocrates of treason he took the chance to make his debut in the political scene and to declare his ideological principles that definitely put him on the side of Demosthenes. For many decades he was one of the best defenders in court of ordinary civilians. His speeches, simple and clear, without rhetoric schemes, were nevertheless strong, persuasive and effective. Throughout his life he strove and fought for his ideas. Athens, his native city, honoured him for his ethos and services with many offices. In spite of his personality and commitment he was condemned to death, tortured and executed in 322.