What did European monarchs do to take more power for themselvs?

European monarchs sought to consolidate power by centralizing authority, reducing the influence of the nobility, and establishing bureaucratic systems to manage their realms more effectively. They often employed tactics such as military force, strategic marriages, and alliances to strengthen their positions. Additionally, they promoted the idea of divine right, asserting that their authority was granted by God, which helped legitimize their rule and diminish challenges to their sovereignty. These efforts contributed to the rise of absolute monarchies in various European nations.