Why were ancient Chinese mathematical texts rediscovered and edited during the 18th century?

During the 18th century, Chinese scholars undertook a significant movement to rediscover, edit, and interpret ancient mathematical texts for several key reasons:

• Loss of Traditional Knowledge: By the 17th century, much of the sophisticated mathematical knowledge from the Song-Yuan period (960–1368) had been forgotten. Mathematicians were no longer able to understand the methods described in earlier works, such as the "method of the celestial unknown," partly because the counting rods previously used for algebraic calculations had fallen out of use.12
• Influence of Western Mathematics: The arrival of European missionaries at the end of the 16th century introduced Western scientific and mathematical concepts, such as algebra. This exposure prompted Chinese scholars to seek out their own mathematical heritage and attempt to synthesize it with Western traditions.2
• Deciphering Ancient Texts: With the aid of Western algebraic techniques, scholars like Mei Juecheng were able to decipher ancient texts that had previously been unintelligible. This success triggered a broader movement to locate, edit, and publish critical editions of these works, which remain the primary sources for the history of Chinese mathematics today.12