Create, Conquer, Defend

What game would closely relate to the topic in this thread. I enjoy the Castle age games, historical type settings. But I haven't found a game where I can personalize a King or Leader, develop a kingdom or territory and be able to conquer or rule over other areas within the game as well as defend my own territory... Any suggestions?

stronghold or stronghold 2 maybe? possibly age of empires 2?

I'd suggest something like Tropico 3. Massive customisation of your character and then you can decide how to rule your land. Not really the same setting. Sorta a 50's cuba theme but it's really good :)GenTom