History

Created in Rio de Janeiro by Prince João VI of Portugal, the Medal for Cayenne (Medalha de Distinção da Tomada de Caiena) was founded to commemorate all the Portuguese soldiers who participated in the capture campaign of Cayenne, the capital of French Guyana in South America, on January 14, 1809. This action was developed as a reprisal for the Napoleonic invasion of Portugal during the Peninsular War.

The Medal was awarded with three grades based in the rank of the recipient; Gold Medal, Silver Medal, and Bronze Medal.