Carl Reiss: Bürger und Mäzen der Stadt Mannheim

The life of Carl Reiss (1843 - 1914) reads like that of a man who resolutely and unwaveringly walks the path to success. He was actively involved in politics, the industrial and financial sectors, as well as in cultural and volunteer activities. Numerous titles, orders, awards, and memberships underscore his omnipresence. It is likely due to the childlessness of his marriage and the early death of his wife that he regarded the people of Mannheim as 'his children' and increasingly advocated for their interests. This commitment was directed not only towards the educated bourgeoisie but also towards the workers of the city, which is exemplified by the play festivals on the Fasaneninsel. He protected this island from industrial exploitation and then gifted it to the citizens of the city. Later, it was renamed 'Reissinsel.' The nationwide mourning at his passing attests to the significance of this 'honorary citizen' of the city of Mannheim. This work aims to highlight as many aspects of Reiss's activities as possible and to present him as an example of an ethically thinking and acting businessman.