The Modern Age began around 1453 with significant events like the fall of Constantinople and the end of the Hundred Years' War. The 16th century saw major economic, social, and political changes including the rise of capitalism and globalization; the growth of the bourgeoisie and modern states; and new horizons from discoveries, religions, and styles. Economically, growth was spurred by increased production, trade, population growth, and the influx of silver and gold from the Americas. Spanish coins found in Chinese tombs would indicate trade between Europe and Asia. Society changed as the bourgeoisie grew richer and more powerful while the nobility declined. The Catholic Church remained powerful but changed after the Protestant Reformation. Monarchies centralized