Harry Potter: 10 Most Shocking Reveals From Pottermore
5. Cornelius Fudge Awarded Himself The Top Wizard Honour
You have to be a pretty awesome wizard to be considered for The Order of Merlin First Class, which is only given to those who perform acts of outstanding bravery or distinction in magic. Albus Dumbledore has, of course, been awarded this top honour, which came about way back in the Middle Ages when the great wizard Merlin established rules against the use of magic on Muggles. Dumbledore, despite his questionable early years, went on to become a great Muggle-lover, and was awarded the OM First Class after he defeated his arch rival (and former object of his desire) Gellert Grindelwald in a legendary duel, effectively putting an end to the wizarding war that took place across Europe from 1930 to 1945. Other noteworthy recipients of the award include Remus Lupin, who was given First Class honours posthumously for his role in the Order of the Phoenix and his part in the Battle of Hogwarts, making him the first Werewolf to ever be awarded the honour. The most curious holder of an Order of Merlin First Class, however, is former Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge. Rowling has revealed that Fudge, who started his career as a Junior Minister in the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, actually awarded himself the prestigious medal, despite being the minister in charge during Voldemorts return and ignoring the fact that a war was looming after being warmed of its coming on several occasions. He resided over one of the most unstable periods in Britain's wizard history, though if you cant award yourself the top honour when youre Minister, whats the point in the taking the job?!
