Final answer:
The Mamluk Sultanate benefited from military prowess and administrative stability due to their meritocratic system of formerly enslaved soldiers as leaders. However, it faced drawbacks like court infighting and succession issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mamluk Sultanate derived several benefits from using formerly enslaved men as soldiers and administrators. The primary advantages included military prowess as the Mamluks were highly trained and their elite status stemmed from their experiences and abilities rather than family lineage. Administratively, the system brought stability as the leaders were chosen based on merit rather than biological relations, fostering loyalty to the Sultan rather than to familial interests. However, there were drawbacks to this system; it led to internal strife and instability, as the Mamluks were scornful of those who had not endured similar rigorous training. Sultans faced issues in succession when attempting to establish their biological sons as heirs, often resulting in resistance and a lack of loyalty from the army. The meritocratic regime, despite its benefits, also came with intense infighting at court, and constant challenges to a ruler's authority.
The Mamluks were instrumental in the protection and expansion of the Sultanate and its influence, particularly demonstrated by their defeat of the Mongols at the Battle of Ain Jalut. Despite challenges, their military successes and the establishment of a distinct architectural style were significant achievements.