First, the Roman Catholic Church was the only church at this time. As such, it was felt to have a monopoly on religious knowledge and on the relationship between Europeans and God. In other words, the Church could control who went to Heaven and who went to Hell. This gave it tremendous power over people’s lives. The Church did much to determine how people would live since it said what was permissible and what was not.Second, the Church was a major political force during this time. Kings and queens wanted and needed papal approval, particularly when they were somewhat weak (as in times of conflict over succession). This, among other things, allowed the Church to exercise political power as it could help to determine which claimants to a throne would be deemed acceptable. There was a long history of tension between the church and secular authority over this and other political issues.<span>Finally, the Church was deeply involved in economic life. The Church controlled a great deal of land (the main source of wealth at this time), largely because it owned monasteries. By owning all the land connected to the monasteries (often willed to it by people wanting to ensure their own salvation), the Church was a major economic power.</span>
As the country grew, certain elements led some towns to morph into large urban centers, while others did not. The following four innovations proved critical in shaping urbanization at the turn of the century: electric lighting, communication improvements, intracity transportation, and the rise of skyscrapers.
The principle of federalism allows states to have power too. The system of checks and balances keeps the military in control and is necessary to protect our country against enemies. The system of checks and balances will ensure Congress does not abuse it's power.
