The historical Kohlhas is a Cölln merchant. Two horses were stolen from Kohlhaas by order of the feudal Junker von Gunther. Kohlhaas appeals to justice, protesting against the banditry of the Junker, but the court leaves his complaint inconsequential.

Kohlhaas writes a threatening letter to Gunther, stating that he is henceforth the sworn enemy of the Junker and will take revenge on him. Soon, people dissatisfied with the feudal lords gather around him and fight for their violated rights. Personal revenge turns into a political struggle. Kohlhaas's struggle lasts eight years until the King of Prussia lures him to Berlin and executes him.