Friedrich Karl Florian

Friedrich Karl Florian (4 February 1894 in Essen – 24 October 1975 in Mettmann) was the Gauleiter of Düsseldorf in Nazi Germany. Entered military service in August, 1914 as a Kriegsfreiwilliger and assigned to Grenadier-Regiment 1 (Garrison: Königsberg). Served in the unit until 1916, when he volunteered for the Fliegertruppe and assigned after training to Jagdstaffel (Jasta) 51 in Jagdgeschwader Richthofen. Shot down and captured by British troops in May, 1918. Released from captivity in November, 1919.

He worked as Gauleiter of the Düsseldorf Gau from 1 January 1930 to 8 May 1945 – seven days after Adolf Hitler's death.

During this time, he was also a member of the Reichstag. On 1 May 1936, he was appointed to the Reich leadership. On 25 September 1933 he became an SA Gruppenführer, and on 30 January 1937 an SA Obergruppenführer.

During his stay in Düsseldorf, journalist Lothrop Stoddard described Florian as "an impressive-looking type: bearing a candid expression, with a kind eye and a still kinder mouth. A gentleman, if ever I saw one. I can imagine how popular he must be among the good-natured, kindly Duesseldorfers."