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The Order of Canada is Canada's highest civilian honour, awarded to those who adhere to the Order's motto Desiderantes meliorem patriam, meaning "they desire a better country." The Order of Canada was instituted on April 17, 1967, by Queen Elizabeth II, on the advice of Prime Minister Lester Pearson. The Order was created to recognize exemplary achievement and service to Canadians and to humanity at large. The first members were appointed on 1 July 1967, the 100th anniversary of the creation of the Dominion of Canada. The creation of the Order was the beginning of the establishment of the Canadian Honours System, a system of awards and decorations to be bestowed onto Canadians and foreigners. Since 1967, more than 5,000 people have been appointed to the Order of Canada. Musicians, politicians, artists, TV stars, benefactors and many more have been accepted into the Order. The Queen of Canada, Queen Elizabeth II, is Sovereign of the Order and the serving Governor General of Canada is its Chancellor and Principal Companion. (read more...)