was to increase and centralise Danish power in the region, against the coast, deterring raids and seizing from rival influence at least the area of the island of Rana, which was an important West Slavic pagan spot (from which at least some of the raiding forces originated, and which was under the influence of Christian coastal rivals).

Absalon formed a guardian fleet, built coastal defenses, and led several campaigns against the Wends. He even advocated forgiving the earlier enemies of Valdemar, which helped stabilize Denmark internally.