Who are the Burghers?

With the passage of time, the term "Burgher" has disappeared. It is regarded as something of the past and by now it is almost forgotten. Transnational migration of the Burghers have eclipsed this ethnic minority.

The Van Dort families in Malaysia are of Dutch Burgher origins. It is well over 300 years since their Dutch Burgher commune began. Today, the remaining Dutch Burghers are few and ageing on the island of Sri Lanka. In fact, the Burghers in Sri Lanka are an endangered minority of 
mankind.

However, beyond the shores of Sri Lanka, the term Burgher is largely unknown, even amongst the younger generation of Burgher families. It would most certainly be greeted with a puzzled look if the matter of Burgher is mentioned.
  
Who are the Burghers?

Here is a recommended reading material on "Who are the Burghers" The website link is:
http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Burgher-people

In a book titled "Burghers" authored by J.B. MULLER, there is this description:

The Burghers have given Sri Lanka some of its finest intellectuals, poets, painters, writers, musicians, engineers, judges, doctors, police and armed services officers and public administrators and legislators, apart from being naturally gifted artisans, technicians and mechanics. They remain a proud people with a great feel for life and an abiding love for their country.

E & OE