MTTC Social Studies 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The Mamluks were a significant political and military force in Egypt and Syria from 1250 until 1517. They originally started as slave soldiers who were trained to serve in the armies of the Ayyubid dynasty. Following the decline of the Ayyubids, the Mamluks seized power and established their own sultanate, with its capital in Cairo.

During their reign, the Mamluks successfully defended their territories against various threats, including the Mongol invasions and later the Crusaders, and they developed a rich culture known for its architectural achievements, arts, and scholarship. Their governance lasted until they were eventually conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1517, marking a significant transition in the control of the region.

The other groups listed had different timelines and geographical focuses: the Ottoman Empire rose to prominence after the Mamluks, the Abbasid Caliphate was a dominant force earlier in the Islamic Golden Age, and the Ayyubids preceded the Mamluks but did not rule during the specified timeframe. Understanding this context highlights why the Mamluks are recognized as the rulers of Egypt and Syria during this period.