Birthdate: November 354 AD
Nationality: Algerian
Bio:
Augustine of Hippo was born in 354 AD in Tagaste, located in modern-day Algeria. He was born to a Christian mother named Monica and a pagan father named Patricius. Augustine received a top-notch classical education in Carthage and taught rhetoric in various locations throughout his early life. Though he was raised Christian, he did not convert fully to the faith until later in life.
In his late 20s and early 30s, Augustine followed the philosophy of Manichaeism and lived a secular lifestyle. During this time, he also had a son out of wedlock named Adeodatus. A turning point came in 386 AD when Augustine heard a voice in a garden in Milan that said “Take up and read” which prompted him to open the Bible and become convinced of the truth of Christianity. He was baptized by Ambrose and devoted himself fully to the faith and philosophy of Christianity.
Augustine went on to become the Bishop of Hippo in northern Africa. He authored numerous influential works of theology and philosophy, including Confessions, City of God, and On Christian Doctrine. Augustine’s writings were hugely important in shaping Western Christian thought and theology. Two of his most enduring doctrines include original sin and just war theory. Augustine died in 430 AD during the Vandal invasion of Northern Africa, leaving behind a vast body of work that elevated him to be one of the most important figures in Christianity.