This volume points out the previously undiscovered importance of the historian Karl Hegel. "Famous but forgotten" - that could be the motto of the life and achievements of the Karl Hegel (1813-1901). During his lifetime he was a well-known and reputed historian who received many awards and honours; in the 20th and 21st centuries, however, he has been nearly completely forgotten. This book has as its goal to point out the importance of this master of research on municipal history. It discusses the main stages in Hegel´s life and scientific production, including his work as editor and writer.