History

This Order was named after a Latvian King and folk hero of the 13th century. It was founded to recognize accomplishments and developments in, and the strengthening of, Latvian social and state security.

The Order was discontinued in 1940 when Latvia fell under the control of the Soviet Union, and it was later re-established in 2004.

The current Order continues to be conferred in recognition of meritorious service in the civil and military realms.

The Order grades may be awarded within the Civil Division or the Military Division.

The Military Division grades feature crossed swords, while the Civil division grades do not feature crossed swords.