The Peace of Augsburg, Edict of Nantes, and Peace of Westphalia all provided legal recognition for secular rulers to control religion within their territories. These agreements gave rulers the power to determine the religion of their subjects and establish religious policies without interference from outside powers. By establishing religious tolerance and state control over religion, secular rulers were able to consolidate their power and maintain stability within their realms. Additionally, these treaties helped to diminish the influence of the Catholic Church and empower secular governments in matters of religion.
