George Frederic Handel

George Frederic Handel was born February 23, 1685. Handel's first two operas were composed in 1705. In 1710, Handel became musical director of Hanover. In 1719, the Royal Academy of Music, was created under the musical direction of Handel. "The Messiah" was presented in 1742. Handel lost his sight in 1753, but continued to conduct performances of his works. Handel died on April 14, 1759. He influenced English composers for a century after his death.