Thus far, people have
failed to mention some of Python's best features: a vast
library of modules providing everything from
math functions and
string manipulation to common
internet protocols and a
GUI or two, an online library
reference guide, and an online
tutorial. Learn python now at www.python.org.
Oh, and nobody mentioned that it's named for Monty Python, not a snake.
I originally learned Python because it was easy to learn, in particular, in comparison with Perl, and because a friend encouraged me to. I continue to use Python because, for many of the things I need to do, it is simply the quickest way to get the job done.