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Plato came to know of Atlantis through the writings of his ancestor (six generations removed) Solon, who was an Athenian statesman, lawmaker and poet. Solon challenged the political, economic and moral decline of Athens during his time, so he was regarded as someone with wisdom and integrity. It is said that Solon came to know of Atlantis through an Egyptian priest at the temple of Neith at Sais, Egypt. They had records (in hieroglyphics) of Atlantis dating around 9,000 years back due to their shared militaristic conflict alongside Athens.

The classical description of Atlantis is of an island that was home to a rich, militarily powerful, and technologically advanced civilization. The first king of Atlantis was known as Atlas and the name ‘Atlantis’ is said to mean ‘Island of Atlas’. In the dialogues, Atlantis is said to have lost a war against Athens, dating back to around 11,000 years ago from the modern age. Furthermore the disappearance of Atlantis was attributed to excessively violent earthquakes and floods which caused the island to sink into the sea within one day and night.