History of Braiding
The art of braiding can be traced back centuries to its roots in Africa. Historically, every country in Africa has a form of braiding incorporated into its standard of beauty for men and women. Throughout the African American hair experience, braiding has been used as a restorative technique for the health and well-being of the hair. Until the 1960s, braiding was performed in the privacy of the home and not worn as an adult style.
source: Book, Milady Standard Natural Hair Care & Braiding by Diane Carol Bailey, Diane Da Costa.
Today, the art of hair braiding has evolved into a newer age of style and creativity. Culturally, just about every hair style involves braids such as hair weaves, crochet braids, box braids and more, for all ages. Braids served as a protective hairstyle that can be worn to work and maintained for weeks when done professionally and well maintained. 
Easy how to braid video http://youtu.be/tw4Gy0AkJRI
Simple. Easy braid pattern.
Tips for growing longer hair
http://www.nenonatural.com/hair-blog/hair-growth-tip-16-braids-that-increase-natural-hair-growth
