Janissaries were elite soldiers in the Ottoman Empire, renowned for their loyalty and bravery. Synonyms for Janissaries include "mamelukes," who were similarly trained in Islamic warfare, and "ghulams," who were slave soldiers in the Mughal Empire. Other synonyms could be "warriors," "troops," or "soldiers." The Janissaries were often used as a political tool by the Ottoman rulers, as they were directly loyal to the Sultan instead of local governors. As such, "palace guards" or "royal protectors" could be other synonyms for Janissaries. These soldiers were instrumental in many Ottoman victories and in the maintenance of power of the Ottoman Empire.