National Order of the Southern Cross
Awarded by the Government of Brazil and the Brazilian Imperial Family
Type | National Order and dynastic order
Motto | Benemerentium Præmium
Eligibility | Foreign nationals
Awarded for | "As a token of gratitude and recognition for those who have rendered significant service to the Brazilian nation."
Status | Currently awarded
Founder | Pedro I of Brazil
Grand Master | His Excellency the President of Brazil (the national order) His Imperial and Royal Highness the Head of the Brazilian Imperial Family (the dynastic order)
Chancellor | His Excellency the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Grades | Grand Collar Grand Cross Grand Officer Commander Officer Knight
Statistics
First induction | December 1, 1822