Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language that was created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. It is known for its simplicity, readability, and versatility, making it one of the most popular programming languages in the world. 

Python’s simplicity and versatility have led to its widespread adoption in various industries and domains, from web development and data analysis to artificial intelligence and automation. It’s often used by beginners as their first programming language due to its ease of learning, but it’s also favored by experienced developers for its power and flexibility.