DULKADIR DYNASTY

Turkmen dynasty (13371522) that ruled in the Elbistan-Maras-Malatya region of eastern Anatolia. Its lands were the focus of rivalry between the Ottoman Empire and the Mamluks of Syria. The dynasty was founded by Karaca, the chief of the Bozok Turkmen, who was recognized as na'ib (deputy) by the Mamluk sultan in 1337 but who, with his sons, later was defeated and killed in a revolt against the sultan. In 1399 the Ottoman sultan Bayezid I, challenging Mamluk influence, installed Dulkadir Mehmed as ruler. He tried to maintain peaceful relations with both powers. After 1450 Ottoman-Mamluk rivalry intensified, resulting in dynastic struggles and frequent changes in Dulkadir leadership. When Ali, the last Dulkadir prince, was overthrown by his grand vizier in 1522, the principality was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire, the Dulkadir family was accorded vassal status, and its members were appointed to high offices.