The history of modern Cologne begins with the French period. Never before has the city changed as rapidly as it did between 1794 and 1815. With the forced end of the Middle Ages, well-known individuals and families have shaped the city's fate up to the present day: names like Oppenheim, Wallraf, and Schnütgen represent the economic and cultural flourishing that began for Cologne during this time. The French period continues to influence the mentality and language of Cologne to this day. No Cologne resident hides their - real or imagined - French roots, whether it concerns culture, language, or industrial enterprises. This volume of the great history of Cologne presents the era that has been particularly formative for the city's current identity.