Circassians in Egypt
The Circassians in Egypt (; ) are people of Egypt with Circassian origin. For centuries, Circassians have been part of the ruling elite in Egypt, having served in high military, political and social positions. The Circassian presence in Egypt traces back to 1297 when Lajin became Sultan of Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt. Under the Burji dynasty, Egypt was ruled by twenty one Circassian sultans from 1382 to 1517. Even after the abolishment of the Mamluk Sultanate, Circassians continued to form much of the administrative class in Egypt Eyalet of Ottoman Empire, Khedivate of Egypt, Sultanate of Egypt and Kingdom  of Egypt. Following the Revolution of 1952, their political impact has been relatively decreased. With the lack of censuses based on ethnicity, population estimates vary significantly. Mainly of mixed Circassian origin, the Abaza family, one of Egypt's richest families, dominates Egyptian business life, and is the largest extended family with more than 50,000 members in the country. History. Circassians in Egypt have a long history. They arrived in Egypt during the Mamluk and Ottoman era, although a small number migrated as muhajirs in the late 19th century as well. The Circassians in Egypt were very influential from the 13th  century. To a certain extent, they shared the same role as their other Circassian brethren who lived in neighbouring Ottoman Turkey; many were importees, deportees, slaves, but also made up many of the notable noble families, while many others were kingmakers, royal consorts, military commanders, soldiers, craftsmen and artists. Religion. Circassians in Egypt are almost exclusively Sunni Muslim. Notables. Notable Egyptians of at least 50% Circassian descent include: