As towns formed and trade grew, feudalism declined in Europe. Nobles still controlled land but more people moved to towns, which were centers of opportunity. Towns were often owned by lords who granted charters allowing townspeople to govern themselves while paying taxes. In England and France, strong monarchies developed. William the Conqueror established the Norman dynasty in England in 1066 and his grandson Henry II strengthened royal power. In France, Hugh Capet founded the Capetian dynasty and Phillip II expanded French lands and centralized tax collection. Both countries saw kings pass titles to sons, increasing dynastic power over time. In England, legal reforms like trial by jury and common law established uniform laws while limits like the Mag