Surveys the state-of-knowledge in the development of polymers and high-strength fibers, and elucidates their structure-property relationships. Emphasizes polymer compositions and related fiber structures and properties. Reviews conventional and high-performance fibers, modifications of aromatic polymers, and liquid crystalline polymers, then goes on to cover aromatic polyamides, polyhydrazides, polyesters, polyazomethines, polyimides, and heterocyclic polymers. Also compares high-strength aromatic fibers with other various high-performance fibers in terms of their properties and end uses.