Rulers of Egypt; descended from Turkish slaves

• A. Mamluks
• B. Seljuk Turks
• C. Crusades
• D. Arabic numerals

Answer: (A)

The rulers in this case are the Mamluks. They were a caste of slave soldiers, many of Turkic origin, who were bought and trained to serve in the Islamic world. Over time, they used their military power and loyalty networks to seize control and establish a sultanate centered in Cairo. This unique path—rising from a status as enslaved warriors to the ruling elite—defines why they’re described as descended from Turkish slaves. The Mamluk period in Egypt lasted from roughly the mid-13th century until the Ottoman conquest in 1517, and they are known for defending the region against major threats like the Mongols and Crusaders, as well as for their distinctive military and architectural legacy. The other options don’t fit because they refer to a different group (Seljuk Turks in other parts of the Middle East), a set of campaigns (Crusades), or a numeral system (Arabic numerals) rather than a ruling dynasty in Egypt.