Manuel Cardona, the person

Abstract

Because others will treat Manuel’s scientific accomplishments in detail, I am writing this from a more personal perspective. In a field filled with outstandingly intelligent people, Manuel was arguably the brightest individual I ever met. His language skills were legendary, and his scientific skills no less. Much of what I have accomplished in my career, and certainly much of the recognition that has come my way, I owe to Manuel. Probably most graduate students and postdoctoral research associates who have had the opportunity to work with Manuel will say the same thing, which gives some idea of his impact.