The Devshirme system forced conquered Christian groups to surrender their sons to become state slaves who were educated in language, math calligraphy, Islamic studies and weaponry, who became relatively wealthy guards, scribes, gatekeepers or Janissaries.--helped the Ottomans maintain power by forcing Christian boys, who might otherwise grow into a generation that challenges the empire, into submission to prevent these sources of uprising. The Devshirme also created a group of people entirely loyal to the Emperor, helping with his governments organization, internal protection and also an army for expansion.