* Early printing: The earliest printing methods (like block printing) were used more for religious texts and calendars.
* Definition of "mathematics": What counts as a "book on mathematics" is subjective. Early works might focus on practical calculations, astronomy, or other fields that overlap with modern math.
However, some contenders for early printed mathematical books include:
* "The Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art" (九章算術, Jiǔzhāng Suànshù): This Chinese text, compiled around the 2nd century BC, was printed multiple times throughout Chinese history. While its earliest printed editions are unclear, it's considered a foundational work of Chinese mathematics.
* "Euclid's Elements": This Greek work, around 300 BC, was widely influential and was printed in numerous editions starting in the 15th century. The earliest known printed version is believed to be from 1482.
Therefore, there's no single definitive answer to your question. The specific first printed mathematics book depends on your definition of "mathematics" and what constitutes a "book" in the early printing era.