“Cannon Soldiers of Burma” recounts the history of hundreds of Portuguese who arrived there at the start of the 16th century seeking opportunities for trade. Its kings and rulers immediately recognized their superior military skills in the use of cannon and muskets and hired them as mercenaries. So it was that they came to stay in Burma, bringing their families and their priests with them. They intermarried with local people and became part of Burmese society; most never returned to Portugal.