Li Zhu vs Qutuz

Li Zhu (Tang Aidi) was compelled to abdicate the throne by the warlord Zhu Wen, who then proclaimed himself emperor of the Later Liang dynasty. This event formally ended the Tang dynasty after nearly 300 years of rule.

After his abdication, the former emperor Li Zhu was poisoned on the orders of Zhu Wen, who feared that the young deposed emperor could become a rallying point for loyalist resistance. This act eliminated the last Tang claimant.

After Aybak's murder, Qutuz became regent for Aybak's young son Al-Mansur Ali. He effectively ruled Egypt as the power behind the throne. This period saw the consolidation of Mamluk power and preparation for the Mongol threat.

Qutuz deposed Al-Mansur Ali and proclaimed himself Sultan of Egypt. He justified this by the need for strong leadership against the impending Mongol invasion. His accession was accepted by the Mamluk commanders, uniting Egypt under his rule.

Qutuz led the Mamluk army to victory against the Mongols at Ain Jalut in Palestine. This was the first major defeat of the Mongol Empire. The battle halted Mongol expansion into the Middle East and secured Mamluk control over Syria.

Shortly after the victory at Ain Jalut, Qutuz was assassinated by Baybars and other Mamluk commanders during a hunting expedition. Baybars then seized the sultanate. Qutuz's death ended his brief but decisive reign and elevated Baybars to power.