History The Ottoman Empire Questions
The Janissaries were an elite infantry unit in the Ottoman Empire. They were originally comprised of Christian boys who were taken from their families as tribute or as prisoners of war, converted to Islam, and trained to become loyal soldiers. The Janissaries played a significant role in the empire's military and political affairs, often serving as the Sultan's personal guard and participating in key battles and campaigns. However, over time, they gained significant power and influence, leading to their eventual downfall and disbandment in the early 19th century.