Li Shanlan (1811--1882) and Chinese traditional mathematics (Q1208617)

The traditional mathematics of the different civilizations in the world spanned varying periods; that of China is unique in the sense that it stretched from antiquity to modern times. The 19th century mathematician, Li Shanlan, was one of the last representatives of this tradition. Steeped in the mathematics and science of his country, he was not only able to comprehend the influx of knowledge on mathematics and science from the west, but was also able to translate a prolific number of such treatises. His own contributions to mathematics provoked interest and transmission of ideas within and outside China. This paper gives a brief history of his life and points out a few of his contributions to mathematics.