Canada’s centenary was cause for celebrations across the country. The nation had changed dramatically since 1867 and, in recognition of Canada’s achievements, The Queen introduced the Order of Canada, with its distinctive snowflake-shaped insignia emblazoned with a red maple leaf, as a distinctly Canadian Order. The Order of Canada honours Canadians from all walks of life and since its inception over 7,000 Canadians have been admitted in gratitude for their achievements in exemplifying the Order’s motto: desiderantes meliorem patriam ('they desire a better country'). This is The Queen’s insignia as Sovereign of the Order.