The Janissaries

The Janissaries were an elite military unit of the Ottoman Empire, established in the 14th century. They were originally composed of young boys taken from Christian families through a system called devshirme, where they were converted to Islam and trained as soldiers. Highly disciplined and well-organized, Janissaries played a crucial role in expanding and defending the empire. They were known for their loyalty to the Sultan and their innovative military tactics. Over time, their power grew, leading to significant political influence, but by the 19th century, they faced reforms that ultimately led to their disbandment.