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Chapter 16: Absolutism and Constitutionalism in Western Europe (ca 1589-1715) The 17th Century saw significant decline to the agricultural output due to poor harvests. With a lack of food general population remained the same or in some cases declined with the supply of food. As the life of the people grew more difficult, governments increaed their spending and in most cases their power over the people. Increased taxation triggered revolts and riots thoughout Europe. Monarchs grew in their power and control over the poeple, imposing nearly soverign rule on their subjects.