The State Decorations of the Czech Republic are the result of a tradition which dates back to 1814, and the origin of the oldest Czech military decoration. The decorations are closely linked to the foundation of an independent Czechoslovak Republic (1918) and stem from its democratic traditions. In 1922, one of the most recognized decorations of modern times was created, the Order of the White Lion. In the decades to follow, the form and content of the order were altered. At some points in history, it was threatened with abolishment. The tradition of the Order was preserved, however, and the President awards and confers it as the highest decoration of the Czech Republic. Law Gazette, No. 157/1994 of July 9, 1994, on State Decorations of the Czech Republic was further established to include additional decorations: the Tomas Garrigue Masaryk Order, the Medal for Heroism, and the Medal of Merit.