What is the established year for the creation of the Medal of Honor?

The Medal of Honor was established in 1861, making it the first military decoration created by the United States. Its inception was motivated by a need to properly recognize and honor acts of valor among members of the armed forces during the Civil War. This change was significant as it provided a formal means to acknowledge extraordinary bravery and sacrifice on the battlefield, which previously had been insufficiently recognized.

Other years provided in the choices mark significant events or developments in military honors, but they are not the founding date of the Medal of Honor. For example, 1865 is notable for the end of the Civil War but is not when the Medal was established. Similarly, 1870 and 1898 pertain to other historical contexts and developments within military honors, but they do not relate to the initial creation of the Medal of Honor. Thus, 1861 stands as the correct and pivotal year for this landmark achievement in military recognition.