The background: Ottoman-Mamluk rivalry and hostility

Friction between the two powers began decades before Marj Dabiq, during the reign of Mehmed II (r. 1451–1481). Initially, the two powers quarrelled over issues of prestige. The Mamluks monopolized and jealously protected their guardianship of Islam’s holy places and the pilgrimage routes, excluding the Ottomans. When the Ottoman sultan offered to repair wells along the hajj route, his offer was rejected, and his envoys were humiliated. The situation became more serious after Mehmed II’s conquest of Constantinople in 1453. This sultan and his successor Bayezid II (r. 1481–1512) consolidated their hold over Anatolia and encroached east toward the Turkmen principalities of Qaraman and Dhu al-Qadr. Both regions were under Cairo’s sphere of influence and served as buffer states. Additionally, Cem, Bayezid II’s brother and contender for the Ottoman throne, was…

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Medieval World Culture & Conflict (Digital) - 1 Issue, Issue 8 - 2023

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