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The Order of the Aztec Eagle (Spanish: Orden Mexicana del Águila Azteca) is a Mexican order and is the highest decoration awarded to foreigners in the country
History
It was created by decree on December 29, 1933 by President Abelardo L. Rodríguez as a reward to the services given to Mexico or humankind by foreigners. It corresponds to similar distinctions given to Mexican citizens such as the Condecoración Miguel Hidalgo or the Belisario Domínguez Medal of Honor. It is given by the office of the foreign minister on the instructions of a Council established for this purpose headed by the President.
Design
There is some design similarity of the order with the coat of arms of Mexico, particularly the golden eagle holding a rattlesnake, which is associated with the Aztec civilization
Before 2011
Prior to the 2011 reform, the classes were, in descending order:
1. Collar ("Collar"), awarded to heads of state;
2. Grand Cross ("Cruz"), awarded to prime ministers and heads of government
3. Sash ("Banda"), awarded to government ministers, secretaries and ambassadors
4. Medal ("Medalla"), awarded to government undersecretaries, plenipotentiary ministers, as well to those whose category is tantamount to the previous;
5. Placard ("Placa"), awarded to ad hoc business representatives, colonels and lieutenant colonels, captains of a ship, equivalent servants of embassies in Mexico), as well to those whose category is tantamount to the previous;
6. Venera (a type of insignia), awarded to ad interim business representatives and other members of diplomatic missions;
7. Insignia proper, awarded under the Council's discretion; and
8. Honorable Mention ("Mención Honorífica").
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