Final answer:
The decline of the power of the Catholic Church is NOT a factor that contributed to political decentralization in Europe.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is (b) The decline of the power of the Catholic Church.
Political decentralization in Europe was influenced by various factors, but the decline of the power of the Catholic Church was not one of them. The other options all played a role in political decentralization:
- The rise of nationalism and the desire for self-determination: This contributed to the breakup of empires and the establishment of nation-states.
- The economic development of regions and the growth of a middle class: This created a desire for local control and autonomy as regions became more prosperous and independent.
- The increasing complexity of governance and the need for more local control: As governance became more complex, there was a need for decentralization to ensure efficient administration at the local level.