Braids and braid groups form central objects in knot theory and
three-dimensional topology. They have also been at the heart of
important mathematical developments over the last two decades. This
introductory text presents the theory of braids and braid groups to the
reader along with the recent developments in this field. Developments
related to the linearity and orderability of braid groups are carefully
presented. This well-written text is ideal for graduate students and all
mathematicians with an interest in braids and braid groups.