When was the Medal of Honor first authorized?

The Medal of Honor was first authorized in 1861 during the American Civil War. This decoration was created to recognize acts of valor in the face of the enemy and was initially established for the U.S. Army. The timing aligned with the need to encourage and recognize bravery among soldiers in combat, as the Civil War presented numerous instances where extraordinary heroism was displayed. In 1862, the Navy also adopted its own version of the Medal of Honor, making it an important symbol of military honor that has evolved over the years to be awarded across all branches of the U.S. military.

The other years listed do not apply to the establishment of the Medal of Honor: 1782 refers to the establishment of the Badge of Military Merit, which is a precursor to the modern medal but not the same; 1890 marks the formal process of awarding the medal to veterans of the Civil War; and 1945 is far after its initial authorization. Thus, the correct moment for the start of this significant military award is indeed 1861.