The History Makers is a new, colour-illustrated series which focuses on the lives and legacies of historical figures who have influenced the world in significant and lasting ways, including politics, social action and the arts and sciences. Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) was best known during his lifetime as an organist rather than a composer. A revival of interest in performing his music began in the 19th century, however, and he is now widely considered to be one of the greatest composers in the Western tradition. Stapert traces his life, his travels, his many musical achievements and the key role that Bach's Lutheran beliefs played in his composing and his life.