The Janissaries were first created by the Ottoman Sultans in the late 14th century and were employed as household troops. The Janissary corps originally consisted of Christian children, taken from their homes at a young age, who were converted to Islam and given a strict military education. During the 15th and 16th centuries they were recognized as one of the best-trained and most effective military units in Europe. They became known for their discipline, morale and professionalism. They were paid regularly and were expected to be ready to enter battle at any time.