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Ismailism in Iran

Ismaili sect; a branch of Islam, was rather a political and patriotic movement in Iran (1090-1258 A.D.) than a religious one. Ismaili movement was established by Hassan Sabbah (حسن صباح); a patriot who opposed the Saljughi (Seljuk) government that ruled Iran between 11th to 13th century.
Ismailis controlled more than 100 fortresses in Iran and a few in Pakistan and Syria. They rarely built any fortresses from scratch; they captured pre-existing fortresses and turned them into strong and impenetrable military complexes.
Ismailis possessed a group of specially trained soldiers called Fadaii (فدائی). They are responsible for some well planed and skillfully executed assassinations of high government officials like Khaje Nezam (خواجه نظام الملک) who was the most powerful and evil minister.
Ismaili movement lasted for about 170 years, they never did manage to overthrow the Saljughi government and rule the country.
Ismailis and Saljughis were both wiped out by the 3rd Mongolian invasion led by Holaku Khan (هلاکو خان).
Mongolians destroyed most of the fortresses after Ismailis were defeated.