It was created on December 13, 1830 by King Louis-Philippe I to thank those who had helped overthrow Charles X and establish a Constitutional monarchy.

The enabling law envisaged the creation of a special decoration from which the members would profit[clarification needed] from the Order.

The Cross is made up of a silver star with three enameled white branches, with the points pommetées and surmounted by a mural crown.

The center of the star, formed by a gold medallion, is surrounded by an enameled crown of green oak leaves.

Recipients of the Cross of July include François-Vincent Raspail, Alexandre Dumas, the general Lafayette, Adolphe Thiers and François Arago.