Python is a high-level programming language known for its simplicity and readability. It was created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. Python supports multiple programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming, making it versatile for various applications. Due to its extensive libraries and frameworks, Python is widely used in fields such as web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and scientific computing. Popular libraries include Pandas for data manipulation and TensorFlow for machine learning, which enhance its functionality and ease of use for developers.