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German-British Baroque composer renowned for operas, oratorios, and instrumental worksBorn in Halle, Germany; studied law before pursuing music; traveled to Italy; settled in London in 1712; became naturalized British subject in 1727; composed over 40 operas and 30 oratorios including Messiah; served royalty including King George I.

• Blinded by cataracts in later life, dictated compositions to assistants including his famous organ concertos.
• Survived a stroke in 1737 that temporarily paralyzed his right arm, making miraculous recovery at German spa.
• Had legendary temper: Threatened to throw prima donna Francesca Cuzzoni out a window during rehearsal.
• Never married; bequeathed copy of Messiah to London's Foundling Hospital, establishing charity performance tradition.
• Died in London at 74; buried in Westminster Abbey with 3,000 mourners attending funeral.