Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its simplicity and readability, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced developers. Created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991, Python emphasizes code readability with its clean and straightforward syntax. It supports multiple programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming. Python is widely used for web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, automation, and more. Its extensive standard library and a vast ecosystem of third-party packages contribute to its versatility and popularity in various fields.