Zurich is a success story. From the demolition of the fortification walls starting in 1833 to the incorporation in 1893, the foundations were laid that make up Zurich today. The city developed into a cosmopolitan economic metropolis with excellent transport connections, a unique quality of life, and renowned universities. This book deals with these pioneering years that contributed to the political, economic, urban, and cultural opening of Zurich and shaped its unique spirit. In seven illustrated contributions, the period of transformation is described from various perspectives. Contributions by Marco Cereghetti, Andreas Honegger, Andreas Hugi, Pascal Ihle, Adi Kälin, Adrian Lemmenmeier, Helmut Meyer, Thomas Ribi, Daniel Speich Chassé, and Tobias Straumann.