1. Military Campaigns: William launched several military campaigns against the Welsh kingdoms, aiming to subdue the local rulers and establish Norman dominance. These campaigns often involved the construction of castles and fortifications in strategic locations to maintain control over the region.
2. Diplomatic Alliances: William sought to forge alliances with some Welsh rulers, offering them titles and lands in exchange for their loyalty and submission. By gaining the support of certain Welsh leaders, he aimed to divide and weaken the resistance against Norman rule.
3. Control of Key Territories: William focused on securing key territories in Wales, particularly along the border regions and coastal areas. This allowed him to exert influence and control over the movement of goods and people, as well as limit the ability of the Welsh to resist Norman authority.
4. Economic Exploitation: The Normans exploited the resources of Wales, including its mineral wealth and fertile lands. They established feudal systems and imposed heavy taxes on the Welsh population, extracting resources and generating revenue for their own benefit.
5. Cultural and Religious Influence: William and his successors promoted the spread of Norman customs, language, and religious practices in Wales. They encouraged the construction of monasteries, churches, and other religious institutions to exert cultural influence and spread the authority of the Catholic Church.
Despite William's efforts and the subsequent campaigns by Norman rulers, the Welsh maintained a significant degree of autonomy and resistance to complete Norman control. The Welsh principalities continued to assert their independence and engaged in periodic conflicts and rebellions against the Normans and English throughout the medieval period.