In the early 16th century, after the Ottoman conquest of Egypt in 1517, Sultan Selim I appointed Yunus Pasha as the governor of Egypt, but he was soon replaced by Hayır Bey due to corruption issues.^[97] This period marked a power struggle between the Ottoman representatives and the Mamluks, who retained significant influence. The Mamluks were incorporated into the administrative structure, holding key positions in the 12 sanjaks of Egypt. Under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the Greater Divan and Lesser Divan were established to assist the pasha, with representation from the army and religious authorities. Selim established six regiments for Egypt's protection, to which Suleiman added a seventh.^[98]

The Ottoman administration frequently changed the Egyptian governor, often annually. One governor, Hain Ahmed Pasha, attempted to establish independence but was thwarted and executed.^[98] In 1527, a land survey was conducted in Egypt, categorizing land into four types: the sultan's domain, fiefs, military maintenance land, and religious foundation lands. This survey was implemented in 1605.^[98]

The 17th century in Egypt was characterized by military mutinies and conflicts, often due to attempts to curb extortion by the troops. In 1609, a significant conflict led to Kara Mehmed Pasha's triumphant entry into Cairo, followed by financial reforms.^[98] During this time, local Mamluk beys gained dominance in the Egyptian administration, often holding military positions and challenging Ottoman-appointed governors.^[99] The Egyptian army, with strong local ties, frequently influenced the appointment of governors and had substantial control over the administration.^[100]

The century also saw the rise of two influential factions in Egypt: the Faqari, linked to the Ottoman cavalry, and the Qasimi, associated with native Egyptian troops. These factions, symbolized by their distinct colors and symbols, significantly influenced the governance and politics of Ottoman Egypt.^[101]