What were some of the methods that the monarchs of the renaissance used to consolidate their power?

1. They won the support and loyalty of the noble families, whether through conciliatory gestures or by intimidation.
2. They levied taxes to ensure enough revenue during both war and peace and also so that they had to depend less on popular support
3. They established strong ties with the church, which kept the masses compliant
4. They constructed forts and other military structures to establish a good military presence in their monarchies