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Mamluk dynasty

rulers of Egypt and Syria [1250–1517]
Also known as: Mameluke dynasty

Quick Summary

The Mamluk dynasty was a powerful military class that rose to rule Egypt and Syria from 1250 to 1517. Originating as slave soldiers, Mamluks gained significant political and military power, eventually overthrowing their Ayyubid rulers.12

The Mamluk state is traditionally divided into two periods: the Turkish Mamluks (1250-1382) and the Circassian Mamluks (1382-1517). The Turkish Mamluks are noted for expelling Crusaders and defeating the Mongols, thereby protecting Islamic civilization. The Circassian period saw a decline in the state's strength.13

Despite their non-Arab, non-Muslim origins, the Mamluks established Egypt as a center of Arab culture, patronizing arts and architecture, particularly in Cairo. Their rule ended with the Ottoman conquest in 1517, though Mamluks continued to hold influence in Egypt.415

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