The Mamluk Askari (also spelled Mamluke Askeri or Mamluk Askariyya) was a type of military slave in the Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt and the Levant, which existed from the 13th to the early 16th centuries. The Mamluk Askari were soldiers of slave origin who were trained in the military arts and were used as the main fighting force of the Mamluk state.
The Mamluk Askari were recruited from various parts of the Islamic world, including the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Balkans. They were trained in the military academies of the Mamluk state and were highly respected for their discipline, loyalty, and military skills.
The Mamluk Askari played a crucial role in the defense and expansion of the Mamluk Sultanate and were instrumental in the victory of the Mamluks over the Mongols at the Battle of Ain Jalut in 1260. They also played a major role in the defense of the Mamluk state against the Crusaders and other external threats.
The Mamluk Askari were organized into regiments, or “alawiyya,” and were led by officers known as “emirs.” The Mamluk Askari were known for their skill in mounted warfare and were equipped with a variety of weapons, including lances, maces, and bows. They were also trained in the use of armor and shields and were highly respected for their courage and discipline on the battlefield.