Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language created by Guido van Rossum in 1991, emphasizing code readability with significant whitespace. It is widely used for web development, scientific applications, education, and supports various programming paradigms like object-oriented and functional programming. Despite its slower performance compared to languages like C/C++, Python's simplicity, extensive libraries, and active community continue to drive its popularity and relevance in areas such as artificial intelligence and data analysis.