Order of Merit

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The Order of Merit is a British order of merit established in 1902 by King Edward VII. It is awarded to individuals of great achievement in the fields of the arts, learning, literature, and science. The order is limited to 24 living recipients from the Commonwealth of Nations, excluding honorary members.

History

The Order of Merit was established by King Edward VII in 1902 to recognize distinguished service in the armed forces, science, art, literature, or for the promotion of culture. The order was created as a means to honor those who have rendered exceptional service to the nation and the world.

Insignia

Members of the Order of Merit are entitled to use the post-nominal letters "OM". The badge of the order is a cross, surmounted by a crown, with the motto "For Merit" inscribed. The ribbon of the order is red with blue edges.

Membership

Membership in the Order of Merit is limited to 24 living members from the Commonwealth realms, excluding honorary members. The order is conferred by the Monarch of the United Kingdom and is considered one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon an individual.

Notable Members

Some notable members of the Order of Merit include:

• Winston Churchill
• Albert Einstein
• Mother Teresa
• Nelson Mandela

Related Orders

The Order of Merit is often compared to other prestigious orders such as the Order of the Garter and the Order of the Thistle. It is unique in its focus on merit in the arts, learning, literature, and science.

See Also

• Order of the Garter
• Order of the Thistle
• Commonwealth of Nations
• British Honours System