Fundamental Groups and Covering Spaces

The subjects discussed in this book are well suited as an introduction to algebraic topology for their elementary character, for exhibiting in a clear way the use of algebraic invariants in topological problems and also because of the immediate applications to other areas of mathematics.

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This introductory textbook describes fundamental groups and their topological soul mates, the covering spaces. The author provides several illustrative examples that touch upon different areas of mathematics, but in keeping with the books introductory aim, they are all quite elementary. Basic concepts are clearly defined, proofs are complete, and no results from the exercises are assumed in the text.