Mercantilism is an economic theory that reinforces the importance of capital to a nation's strength, as opposed to land or people. This theory quickly dominated the early modern society, as the development of colonies and new inventions boosted international trade and undermined old political structures. The socio-economical changes were indeed very deep, pushing the old feudal aristocracy to the background to make room for the new burgeoisie, which was destined to hold the steer of economy for centuries to come. This coincided with the accumulation of power by monarchs, who quickly gained independence from the weakening nobility and a new form of rule, an Absolutism, was formed. These reforms also fueled education among the common men, as the bourgeoisie was swelling in ranks and demanding more specialised employees. The Age of Reason was at hand.