Voldemort's Open War
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood PrinceVoldemort's return leads to widespread terror, including attacks on Muggles and the Ministry's struggle to maintain order.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
The Other Minister's Briefing

The Muggle Prime Minister Learns the Truth
The First Meeting
Cornelius Fudge, the former Minister for Magic, visits the Muggle Prime Minister to inform him of Lord Voldemort's return. He explains that recent disasters—the Brockdale Bridge collapse, the hurricane in the West Country, and the murders of Amelia Bones and Emmeline Vance—were caused by Death Eaters.
The New Minister
Rufus Scrimgeour, the new Minister for Magic, meets with the Prime Minister, demanding increased security. He reveals that the Junior Minister Herbert Chorley is under the Imperius Curse, and that the Ministry is taking steps to protect the Muggle world.
The Cold Reality
The Prime Minister is overwhelmed by the reality of the wizarding war and the threat to Muggles. He feels powerless, but Scrimgeour insists on cooperation. This meeting sets the stage for the escalating conflict that will affect both worlds.
The Daily Prophet Reports

The Public Learns of the War
The Leak of the Prophecy
The Daily Prophet reports on the disturbance at the Ministry, revealing that a prophecy about Harry Potter and Voldemort exists. The public begins to call Harry 'the Chosen One.' The Ministry tries to control the narrative, but rumors spread.
Increased Attacks
The newspaper constantly reports on dementor attacks, disappearances, and deaths. The wizarding community lives in fear, and parents withdraw their children from Hogwarts. The Ministry's ineffectiveness is criticized.
The Ministry's Propaganda
Rufus Scrimgeour uses the Prophet to promote his tough stance, but Harry sees through the propaganda. The paper also reports on the arrest of Stan Shunpike, a false Death Eater, highlighting the Ministry's desperation.
The Aftermath of Dumbledore's Death

The Fallout
The Ministry's Response
After Dumbledore's death, the Ministry of Magic takes charge of Hogwarts. Rufus Scrimgeour attempts to interrogate Harry about Dumbledore's final mission, but Harry refuses. The Ministry considers closing the school, but the teachers argue for its continuation.
The Funeral
Dumbledore's funeral is attended by many, including centaurs and merpeople. It is a somber occasion that marks the end of an era. Harry decides not to return to Hogwarts, choosing to hunt Horcruxes instead.
The War Continues
Voldemort's influence spreads, and the wizarding world faces an uncertain future. Harry, Ron, and Hermione prepare to leave the safety of the school to destroy the remaining Horcruxes and confront Voldemort.
early July, before the start of term
throughout the autumn, after the Ministry leak
late June, after the Battle of the Astronomy Tower