Giacomo Puccini was an Italian composer known for his operas, including "La Bohème," "Tosca," and "Madama Butterfly." He was born in 1858 and is considered one of the greatest operatic composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Puccini's works are known for their emotional intensity, lush melodies, and rich orchestration. His operas continue to be widely performed and beloved by audiences around the world.