Before jumping into Skirmish mode, it is highly recommended to complete the in-game tutorials. Firefly Studios Support notes that the game includes a small tutorial campaign and three learning campaigns designed to familiarise players with different factions and mechanics.
Start beer production (hop farms and an inn) and later candle production to keep people happy. stronghold-crusader-2-installment-tutorial
Once you have a steady supply of stone and gold, build a church to further boost popularity, allowing you to raise taxes. 3. Making Gold Before jumping into Skirmish mode, it is highly
Use the gold earned from selling resources to "pay" your people (giving gold increases popularity) or set taxes high once you have enough popularity from food variety and ale. 4. Basic Defense & Military Once you have a steady supply of stone
Build houses (hovels) close to your keep for a popularity boost.
Place your stockpile near grass and stone patches. Build a granary quickly, but you can actually delay food production for the first ~10 minutes if you focus on popularity elsewhere.