Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire

Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (DBE) is a British honour bestowed upon women for meritorious service to the government in art, science, charity, and public service. It is the female equivalent of being appointed a Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE), where the male recipients are entitled to use the title 'Sir'. The honour is divided into civil and military divisions. The Order of the British Empire was established by King George V in 1917 to fill gaps in the British honours system, primarily to recognize contributions made by non-combatants during the First World War.

History and Significance

The Order of the British Empire was created to acknowledge the efforts of a wider range of contributions to the British war effort during the First World War. Before its creation, recognition was primarily available to those in senior military ranks or in the existing orders of chivalry, which often excluded women and civilians. The establishment of the Order allowed for a broader recognition of contributions, including those of women, which was a significant step towards gender equality in the honours system.

Ranks

The Order of the British Empire has five classes in both civil and military divisions:

1. Knight/Dame Grand Cross (GBE)
2. Knight/Dame Commander (KBE/DBE)
3. Commander (CBE)
4. Officer (OBE)
5. Member (MBE)

The rank of Dame Commander is the second highest in the Order, and recipients are entitled to use the title 'Dame' before their name. It is awarded for outstanding achievements and service to the nation.

Appointment Process

The appointment to the Order is made by the British monarch, on the advice of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom or the Cabinet Office's Honours Committee. Recommendations for appointments come from governments of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth realms, and from a range of sectors in public life.

Insignia

The insignia for a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire includes a badge depicting a cross patonce (a type of Christian cross) surmounted by a crown. The badge is worn on a sash by women, passing from the left shoulder to the right hip. Additionally, recipients are given a star badge that is worn on the left side of the clothing.

Notable Recipients

Many distinguished women have been appointed as Dames Commander of the Order of the British Empire, recognizing their contributions in various fields. These include actresses Dame Judi Dench and Dame Maggie Smith, singer Dame Shirley Bassey, and author Dame Agatha Christie, among others.

Controversies and Criticisms

The Order of the British Empire has faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding its name and its association with the British Empire, which is seen by some as a symbol of colonialism and oppression. Some potential recipients have declined the honour due to these associations.

See Also

• British honours system
• Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
• Order of the British Empire