Fifty Years Honouring Canadians

Over the past fifty years more than 6,000 Canadians have been appointed to the Order of Canada. This illustrated history traces the Order’s origins, along the way explaining how the merit-based honour got its familiar snowflake insignia. Replete with gorgeous illustrations, this book provides an accessible window into our national honour.

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This fully illustrated history traces the Order of Canada from its establishment in 1967 to its place today as a national honour.


Over the past fifty years more than six thousand Canadians have been appointed to the Order of Canada. Those who embody the motto of the Order through their efforts to “Desire a better country,” continue to be recognized by the Crown and their fellow Canadians with the familiar white snowflake insignia. This illustrated history traces the origins of the Order, from the debate surrounding Canadians accepting peerages and knighthoods that took place during the First World War, through to Vincent Massey and Lester Pearson’s great desire to see their fellow citizens recognized with a truly Canadian honour. Details about the design of the insignia, investitures, and prominent members of the Order of Canada are also included. Rich with illustrations and historical vignettes, this book provides an easily accessible window into the fascinating history of our pre-eminent national honour.