Fifty Years Honouring Canadians ― The Order of Canada, 1967-2017

This fully illustrated history traces the Order of Canada from its establishment in 1967 through to its development and bestowal upon more than 6,000 Canadians over the past fifty years.

Over the past fifty years more than 6,000 Canadians have been appointed to the Order of Canada. 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. The story is told of those who played a role in developing this grassroots-nominated, merit-based honour that has come to serve as the cornerstone of the broader Canadian honours system.

Rich with images and historical vignettes, details about the design of the insignia, investitures, and prominent members of the Order of Canada are also included. 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. With 150 illustrations and photos, this book provides an easily accessible window into the fascinating history of our preeminent national honour. More

Christopher McCreery holds a doctorate in Canadian political history from Queen’s University and is the author of more than a dozen books. He is private secretary to the lieutenant governor of Nova Scotia, and is a fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. In 2010 he was appointed a Member of the Royal Victorian Order by the Queen. He lives in Halifax.