The phrase "was control of" can be replaced with several synonyms depending on the context. Some options include "had dominion over," "exercised power over," "governed," "oversaw," "commanded," "directed," "managed," "regulated," "dominated," "held sway over," "ruled," and "presided over." Each of these phrases conveys a slightly different nuance, so it's important to choose the best one for the situation. Using synonyms like these can make writing more varied and interesting, and can help create a more precise and impactful message.