MAMELUKE Meaning and
Definition
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Mameluke refers to a member of a military caste that existed during the medieval period in Egypt and Syria. Originating from Turkic and Caucasian regions, the Mamelukes were mostly slaves or captives who were purchased or acquired and then trained as elite soldiers. These individuals were predominantly of Turkic, Circassian, or Kipchak descent.
The term "Mameluke" is derived from the Arabic word "mamalik," which means "property" or "owned." The Mamelukes rose to prominence during the Ayyubid dynasty, where they initially served as army officers before eventually taking control of the government. They established their own dynasties, notably the Bahri and the Burji dynasties, which ruled Egypt and parts of Syria for several centuries.
Mamelukes were highly regarded for their martial skills, notably their expertise in cavalry warfare. They were trained from a young age in horsemanship, archery, swordsmanship, and military tactics. Renowned for their loyalty and discipline, the Mamelukes became renowned as a fearsome and formidable military force, aiding in the defense and expansion of the Islamic territories.
Over time, the term "Mameluke" also came to represent individuals who were liberated from slavery and subsequently achieved high positions in the military or government. They formed a unique social class, distinct from the ruling elite, but exerting significant influence within the realms they served.
Despite their eventual decline and the elimination of their rule, the Mamelukes remain a fascinating historical and cultural phenomenon, showcasing the complexities of hierarchical structures, social mobility, and military prowess in the medieval Islamic world.
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The chief military force of Egypt, destroyed in 1811.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MAMELUKE
Etymology of MAMELUKE
The word "Mameluke" is derived from the Arabic term "mamlūk" (plural: mamlūkūn), which means "owned" or "slave". In the context of medieval Islamic society, it specifically referred to a group of slave soldiers who served as the ruling class in various Muslim states, particularly during the Middle Ages. The Mamelukes were originally composed of soldiers who were captives or slaves, often of Turkic or Circassian origin, taken during conflicts between Muslim and non-Muslim powers. Over time, they gained significant power and influence, eventually establishing their own dynasties and ruling as independent rulers in regions such as Egypt and Syria.
Similar spelling words for MAMELUKE
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