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The Most Noble Order of the Garter is an English order of chivalry dating from mediæval times. It is the world's oldest national order of knighthood, and the pinnacle of the British honours system. Its membership is extremely limited compared to most modern orders, consisting of the Sovereign and not more than 25 full members, known as Knights Companion or Ladies Companion (not Dames, as in most other British chivalric orders). The Order also includes certain extra members (e.g., members of the British Royal Family and foreign monarchs), known as "Supernumerary" Knights and Ladies. Unlike most other orders, the Order of the Garter is not subject to the Prime Minister's binding advice on appointments; rather, the Sovereign alone grants membership. Membership in the Order is thus the personal gift of the Sovereign.
As the name suggests, the Order's primary emblem, depicted on several insignia, is a garter bearing the motto Honi soit qui mal y pense in gold letters. The motto is Old French for "shame upon him who thinks evil of it". The Garter is not only symbolic, but is an accessory worn by the Order's members during ceremonies. (more...)
