This may be your first encounter with vector graphics. Or, you may have used vector graphics before and are now checking to see what else it can do for you. Or, you may be considering Inkscape after having used other vector editing applications and would like to know what sets it apart. Whatever your situation is, you may find some background information useful. What is SVG? What is Inkscape? Where does it come from and where is it headed? What can you use it for? What is Inkscape’s place in the world of computer graphics? This introductory chapter attempts to answer these and other questions.