Augustine of Hippo

Augustine of Hippo was one of the most influential Christian thinkers. Born in North Africa, he led a turbulent life in his youth, was attracted to Manichaeism, then converted to Christianity.

His 'Confessions' is the first philosophical autobiography in history, a deep self-analysis and meditation on the nature of time, memory, and free will.

Augustine developed the concept of the 'City of God' and 'earthly city,' the doctrine of grace and predestination, which had an enormous influence on Western Christianity.