The Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth (also known as the Poland) had been a major European power since its formation in the late 16th century and was still one of the largest states in Europe in the latter part of the 18th century. Over time, its state machinery had become increasingly dysfunctional. By the early 17th century, the magnates of Poland and Lithuania controlled the state or rather managed to ensure that no reforms would be carried out that might weaken their privileged status (the so-called "Golden Freedoms").