Whereas prior to colonialism, the nobles would declare a new loyalty and life for the peasants would continue on as normal (or the nobles would be replaced). It

Whereas prior to colonialism, the nobles would declare a new loyalty and life for the peasants would continue on as normal (or the nobles would be replaced). It seems that the Protestant reformation was a big contributor to change in this structure, with rulers having much more concern for how the peasants conducted their daily lives and holidays (and language?) not just taxes and fealty.