The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software. It was created by the Free Software Foundation to promote and protect the principles of free software, ensuring that software remains free for all users. The GPL is designed to prevent proprietary use of software, meaning that any derivative work must also be distributed under the same license. This copyleft approach encourages collaboration and sharing within the software community, fostering innovation and accessibility for everyone.