Yes, Pius Thicknesse was indeed under the Imperius Curse.
The Imperius Curse and Its Victim
Pius Thicknesse, a prominent figure within the Ministry of Magic, serving as the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and subsequently becoming Minister for Magic, was subjected to the highly illegal Imperius Curse by Lord Voldemort. This powerful curse allows the caster to completely dominate the victim's will and actions, effectively turning them into a controlled servant.
Only the Order of the Phoenix appeared to be aware of Thicknesse's predicament, understanding that he was acting against his own will under the influence of dark magic. This awareness was a critical piece of intelligence for the Order, revealing the extent of Voldemort's insidious control over the wizarding government.
Voldemort's Strategic Manipulation of the Ministry
Lord Voldemort's decision to place Pius Thicknesse under the Imperius Curse was a calculated move to gain covert control over the Ministry of Magic without a direct, public takeover. This strategic manipulation had significant consequences for the wizarding world:
- Puppet Authority: Thicknesse was reduced to a mere puppet, carrying out the routine tasks and official duties of his high-ranking positions. His actions were dictated entirely by Voldemort, making him a tool rather than an independent leader.
- Voldemort's De Facto Rule: With Thicknesse under his control, Voldemort effectively became the true power behind the Ministry. He could direct governmental actions and policies from the shadows, without needing to occupy the Minister's office himself.
- Unimpeded Power Expansion: This clandestine control over the Ministry allowed Voldemort the freedom to vastly extend his power and influence across the wizarding community. The Ministry, ostensibly led by Thicknesse, became an instrument for enacting oppressive laws and persecuting those who opposed Voldemort, particularly Muggle-born witches and wizards.
For more details on Pius Thicknesse and the events surrounding his role, you can refer to the Harry Potter Wiki.
