Born in 1029 CE, Alp Arslan was the great-grandson of Seljuk founder. Succeeded his father as governor of Khorasan in 1059. Became sultan of Seljuk Empire in 1064, ruling from Oxus to Tigris
Born in 1223-1228 on Russian steppe, Baibars was enslaved at age 19. Witnessed parents' massacre by Mongols in 1242. Became slave in Rum and then Egyptian official's household
Born in 1137/38 in Tikrīt, Saladin became sultan of Egypt, Syria, Yemen, and Palestine. Joined uncle Asad al-Dīn Shīrkūh's staff after military expeditions into Egypt. Became vizier of Egypt in 1169, abolishing Shiʿi Fatimid caliphate in 1171
Born in 1223 in Kipchak Turk country, became slave to Ayyūbid sultan. Demonstrated military abilities and gained first victory against Crusaders in 1250. Murdered Ayyūbid sultan Tūrān Shāh in 1250, leading to Mamlūk rebellion
Born in 1861 in Dolmabahçe Palace, Vahdettin lost both parents early. Received madrasah education in Islamic Sharia and Sufism. Showed interest in art, literature, calligraphy and music
Born in Tikrit in 1137-1138 to Kurdish military leaders. Joined Nur al-Din's forces in Egypt after uncle Shirkuh's death. Became governor of Egypt in 1171, establishing Sunni rule