Who were the burghers?

Burghers were the middle-class citizens in medieval European towns, often consisting of merchants, artisans, and professionals. They played a crucial role in the economic and social development of urban centers by engaging in trade and various crafts. Burghers typically held certain privileges, including participation in local governance, and they contributed to the rise of a more urban and commercial society. Their status and influence grew significantly during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance.