ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Pour le Mérite

Okay kiddo, let me explain what "pour le mérite" means. "Pour le mérite" is a fancy French phrase that means "for merit". It's a very special honor or award that is given to people who have done amazing things and made a big impact in their field or country.

Think of it like a really big gold star that you can wear on your chest or neck. But this gold star is not just given to anyone. It's only given to people who have done something really outstanding, like saving a lot of lives, or inventing something really important, or helping their country in a big way.

Now, this award has a really interesting history. It was first given out in the 18th century by a king named Frederick the Great of Prussia. He created it as a way to honor soldiers who showed bravery in battle. But over time, it became more than just a military award. It started to be given to people in other fields, like science, art, and politics.

Today, "pour le mérite" is still one of the most prestigious honors you can receive in Germany. It's like the highest compliment someone can give you for being really good at what you do. So if someone you know ever gets this award, you can be very proud of them!
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