Python is a high-level, general-purpose programming language created by Guido van Rossum in 1991. Its design philosophy emphasizes code readability through significant indentation. Python supports multiple programming paradigms, including structured (procedural), object-oriented, and functional programming. It’s often described as a “batteries included” language due to its comprehensive standard library1. It’s widely used for web development (server-side), software development, mathematics, and system scripting2.