Question

Which of the following allowed European monarchs to develop strong central governments from the 1500s to the 1700s?

Answer 1

The best answer is B) New forms of taxation

Although this period coincided with a resurgence of nationalism and patriotism, it was the shift of the economy from feudalism to mercantilism, and the opportunities that came with Age of Exploration and establishing colonies abroad, that  most influenced the consolidation of power in Europe during this time. Monarchs suddenly had ways to greatly increase their revenue by taxing trade and by reaping the benefits of overseas colonies, which took a lot of power away from feudal lords.