Order of the Cross of Liberty

There are three official orders in Finland: the Order of the Cross of Liberty (Vapauden Ristin ritarikunta), the Order of the White Rose of Finland and the Order of the Lion of Finland. The President of Finland is the Grand Master of all three orders. The orders are administered by boards consisting of a chancellor, a vice-chancellor and at least four members. The orders of the White Rose of Finland and the Lion of Finland have a joint board.

Related Topics:
Finland - Order of the White Rose - Order of the Lion of Finland - President of Finland

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The Order of the Cross of Liberty was founded on March 4, 1918, upon the initiative of General C.G. Mannerheim. The renowned Finnish artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela was commissioned to design the Order's insignia. Once Mannerheim had approved the drawings, the first decorations were ordered, on April 15, 1918.

Related Topics:
March 4 - 1918 - General C.G. Mannerheim - Akseli Gallen-Kallela - April 15

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At first there were seven classes: grand cross, cross of liberty (1st to 4th class) and the medal of liberty (1st and 2nd class). The decorations of the Order of the Cross of Liberty were initially conferred only in time of war. But to safeguard the operations of the Order after the war, a decree was issued on August 18, 1944 enabling the decorations to be awarded also in peace time.

Related Topics:
August 18 - 1944

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The Cross of Liberty has a red ribbon when it is granted in war time and a yellow ribbon when it is awarded in time of peace.

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