SawJacksoul wrote:
The best bet is to make connections. Try to get all the allies you can and then build up your army as quick as you can. Then it's only good luck in conquering
I would slightly disagree with this as too many allies means less territory to expand and thus limiting your potential power unless you attack your allies.
One of the best responses I've seen to being conquered is staying active and attacking anything they (your conquerors) own around you. Most players would rather have you simply go away/leave them alone than fight to keep you conquered. It's usually hardly worth the couple metal and oil per tick.