Devshirme and Janissary System

Timeline

1. c. 1360–1453Edirne–Bursa area · ThraceThe Ottomans recruited Christian boys in the Balkans (devshirme), who after Islamization and military training were incorporated into the Janissaries, forming a disciplined standing infantry core directly under the sultan, distinct from feudal fief cavalry.
2. 1520–1566Istanbul · IstanbulUnder Suleiman I the Janissaries grew to tens of thousands, participating in campaigns in Hungary, Persia, and the Mediterranean; the corps possessed barracks, pay, and promotion channels in the capital, becoming an armed force that could not be ignored in palace politics.
3. 1566–1570Around Topkapi Palace, Istanbul · IstanbulAfter Suleiman's death Selim II acceded to the throne, and the Janissaries demonstrated their political weight during the succession; meanwhile devshirme recruitment continued but showed signs of Muslim sons infiltrating and hereditary succession within the corps, foreshadowing later political interference.