[1] The introduction of the Imperial Order of Saint Alexander Nevsky was envisioned by Emperor Peter I of Russia (r. 1682–1721) to reward military bravery in battle.

The order was originally awarded to distinguished Russian citizens who had served their country with honor, mostly through political or military service.

[2] It was first awarded on the occasion of the wedding of Grand Duchess Anna Petrovna of Russia and Charles Frederick, Duke of Holstein-Gottorp in 1725.

The Order of Saint Alexander was granted the highest esteem and was not usually bestowed upon people below the rank of Lieutenant-General or an equal political status.

[4] In 2010, researchers in Saint Petersburg and Moscow published a book listing all the names of the recipients of the original order.