Canadian honours system
The Canadian honours system has developed as a unique entity since the centennial of Canadian Confederation in 1967 when the first distinctly Canadian honour, the Order of Canada was created. The system is modelled on the British honours system. British honours used to be regularly awarded in Canada but were withdrawn at the direction of the Canadian parliament beginning with the Nickle Resolution which generally ended the awarding of British knighthoods and peerages to Canadians.
The Queen of Canada is the font of all honours. She is represented by the Governor General of Canada who acts for the Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister. Queen Elizabeth II is Sovereign of the Royal Victorian Order; Sovereign of the Order of Canada; Sovereign of the Order of Military Merit; and Sovereign of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces.
See also List of Canadian Awards