What was one major consequence of the decline of feudalism?

The decline of feudalism notably led to the rise of a central monarchy, which fundamentally changed the political landscape of Europe. As feudalism waned, the decentralized power structure that characterized feudal societies began to shift toward more centralized forms of governance. Monarchs reclaimed authority that had been fragmented among lords and vassals, consolidating power and establishing stronger, more unified states.

This transition allowed kings and queens to exert greater control over their territories, implement laws uniformly, and collect taxes more effectively. As central authorities gained strength, they could build bureaucratic systems and professional armies, which further facilitated the rise of nation-states. This centralization was pivotal during the late Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, setting the stage for modern governmental structures.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of feudalism's decline. The establishment of democratic governments occurred much later and was influenced by various factors, including the Enlightenment. The decline of trade and commerce runs contrary to historical trends, as this period coincided with the beginnings of the commercial revolution in Europe. Similarly, while territorial wars did occur, the rise of centralized monarchies often led to more organized and structured military campaigns rather than an increase in indiscriminate conflicts.