Absolutism strengthened the power of European monarchs in the 17th century in several ways. Nobles were given tax exemptions and control over local governments in exchange for their loyalty. Louis XIV further consolidated power by creating new nobles who owed their status directly to him. The Catholic Church supported absolutism by giving divine legitimacy to the king's rule and becoming a national church under the king's control. Large standing armies required for new warfare tactics necessitated increased tax collection across each kingdom, further extending the reach and power of absolute monarchs.