Qansuh al-Ghawri vs Romanos I Lekapenos

Qansuh al-Ghawri attempted to modernize the Mamluk army by introducing firearms and training infantry in their use. These reforms faced resistance from traditional Mamluk cavalry elites and were only partially implemented, leaving the army unprepared for the Ottoman threat.

Qansuh al-Ghawri executed the Emir of Dulkadir, a vassal state, for conspiring with the Ottoman Empire. This act alienated other Mamluk vassals and weakened the sultanate's alliances on the eve of the Ottoman invasion.

Qansuh al-Ghawri led the Mamluk army against the Ottoman forces of Selim I at Marj Dabiq near Aleppo. The Mamluks were decisively defeated due to Ottoman artillery and superior tactics. Al-Ghawri was killed during the battle, leading to the collapse of Mamluk control over Syria.

Romanos I led successful campaigns against the Abbasid Caliphate, recapturing several fortresses in eastern Anatolia. His general John Kourkouas achieved notable victories, including the capture of Melitene in 934.

Romanos I Lekapenos, a naval admiral, was appointed co-emperor by the young Constantine VII. He gradually sidelined Constantine and became the de facto ruler. His rise marked the beginning of the Lekapenos dynasty's dominance.

Romanos I negotiated a peace treaty with Tsar Peter I of Bulgaria, ending decades of war. The treaty included a marriage alliance between Peter and Romanos' granddaughter Maria. This brought stability to the Balkan frontier.

Romanos I was overthrown by his own sons Stephen and Constantine, who forced him to become a monk. He was exiled to the island of Prote and died in 948. His sons were soon overthrown by Constantine VII.