Janissary
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The Janissaries (Ottoman Turkish: Yeniçeri, English: New soldiers) were specially trained soldiers of the Ottoman Empire, and the private guard to the Sultan. In Assassins Creed Revelations they will be Ezio's main enemy in Constantinople.
History
Formation
Janissaries created by Sultan Murad I were Christian (commonly Greek) boys from conquered countries, who were levied into the Devshirme system (or the "Collection of Children"). The Janissaries were also nicknamed "Slave Soldiers" because of their capture. The strongest of the children were usually chosen to become Janissaries, whereas the intelligent ones would become scientists or architects.[1]
The Janissaries became the Ottoman Empire's first standing army, and were required to learn and convert to Islam. They were infantry units that formed the Sultan's household troops and bodyguard, though they were eventually abolished by Sultan Mahmud II in 1826, as a result of the Auspicious Incident.[1][2]
16th Century
During Ezio Auditore da Firenze's time in Constantinople, the Janissaries actively sought to prevent him from locating the Seals of Altaïr, which were scattered throughout the city. Eventually, Ezio killed one of their high commanding officers, forcing them to resort to patrolling the whole of the Golden Horn, as well as blocking off the port in an effort to prevent him from escaping the city.[3]
However, this ultimately failed, as Ezio destroyed the Great Chain with an explosive bomb, as well as sank the ships in the port with Greek Fire. He then left Constantinople on a chartered ship.[3]