How can the balance of global power during the early modern era be characterized?

The balance of global power during the early modern era (approximately 1500-1800) was characterized by the rise of European colonial empires, particularly those of Spain, Portugal, Britain, and France, which expanded their influence through exploration and colonization. This period saw the emergence of mercantilism and competition for trade routes, leading to conflicts and shifting alliances. Additionally, the rise of nation-states and the decline of feudalism transformed political dynamics, allowing for centralized power and the pursuit of national interests on a global scale. Overall, it was a time of significant geopolitical change, marked by the interplay of European powers and the impact of their expansion on indigenous populations worldwide.