Also during the colonial era, and even more in the 20th century, many Westerners looking for more rational belief systems as alternatives to Western religious dogma embraced Buddhist philosophy.
They saw in Buddhism an opportunity to engage with spirituality on the basis of empirical evidence rather than belief in a deity.
For example, they considered the benefits that meditation could bring to the practitioner. They also examined the psychological applications of Buddhist philosophy.
In the 19th century, the Theosophical Society was one group that sought mystical common truths beneath all religions.
Also during the colonial period, British archaeologists uncovered ancient Buddhist sites in India. They also helped to restore many ancient sites, such as the main temple of Bodh Gaya. These actions increased awareness of India’s Buddhist heritage.