EN
Ferdinand de Saussure died 100 years ago (22. 2. 1913) leaving a memorable legacy of primary importance for modern linguistics. This brief review outlines his life, family, studies and cultural background in his native Geneva that were formative for his career and then offers a short account of his major thoughts that have largely shaped the course of modern linguistics. The notes are related thematically to the nature of language and linguistics in the human community, moving to the language system (langue) and text (parole). Some of his important observations are included at the end together with an extensive list of quotes illustrating Ferdinand de Saussure’s well‑known, lesser‑known and unknown views, all of which are of special importance and still provide intellectual stimulation for linguists today.