Python Developer Tooling Handbook
Explanation
What is Python

What is Python

Python is a high-level, general-purpose programming language created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. Known for its readability and clean syntax, Python emphasizes code clarity through significant whitespace and a “batteries included” philosophy that provides a rich standard library. The language supports multiple programming paradigms including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming. Python’s design philosophy emphasizes simplicity, and readability

Python has become one of the most widely adopted programming languages globally. Its versatility spans web development, data science, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, automation, and education. Major organizations including Google, Instagram, Spotify, and NASA rely heavily on Python, while its accessibility has made it a standard choice for teaching programming in universities and bootcamps.

However, Python represents more than just a programming language – it’s an ecosystem of software, organizations, and people working together to advance one of the world’s most popular programming languages. Understanding Python means understanding several key organizations and groups that shape its development and future.

The Python Steering Council

The Python Steering Council provides oversight and strategic direction for Python’s development. Established in 2018 through PEP 13, the council consists of five core developers elected by the core team.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Making final decisions on Python Enhancement Proposals (PEPs)
  • Setting technical standards and policies
  • Resolving disputes within the development community
  • Appointing core developers
  • Maintaining Python’s long-term health and sustainability

CPython: The Reference Implementation

CPython serves as Python’s reference implementation and default interpreter. Written primarily in C and Python, CPython provides the foundation that most Python developers interact with. When people refer to “Python,” they typically mean CPython specifically.

CPython includes the Python interpreter that executes code, and a standard library of built-in modules included with the interpreter.

While alternative Python implementations exist (like PyPy, IronPython, and Jython), CPython remains the canonical version that defines Python’s behavior and features.

The Python Core Developers

Python’s core developers form the technical foundation of the language’s development. This group of volunteers maintains CPython’s codebase, reviews contributions, and guides Python’s technical evolution.

Core developers earn their position through sustained, high-quality contributions to Python. Their responsibilities include:

  • Maintaining the CPython codebase
  • Reviewing and merging pull requests
  • Participating in technical discussions
  • Mentoring new contributors
  • Making decisions about Python’s implementation

The Python Software Foundation

The Python Software Foundation (PSF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that:

  • Holds Python’s intellectual property rights
  • Organizes PyCon conferences
  • Provides grants for Python development
  • Supports Python community initiatives
  • Promotes Python’s adoption and development

The PSF plays a crucial role in Python’s ecosystem by:

  • Managing trademark and licensing
  • Funding development work
  • Supporting educational initiatives
  • Fostering the global Python community
  • Providing infrastructure for Python.org and PyPI

The Python Package Index (PyPI)

PyPI hosts over 400,000 packages and serves billions of downloads monthly, making it one of the largest software repositories in the world.

PyPI serves as Python’s official package repository. Maintained by the PSF, PyPI enables developers to:

  • Share Python packages with the community
  • Install third-party libraries and tools
  • Publish and version their packages
  • Find and evaluate Python software

The Python Enhancement Process

Python’s development follows a structured process centered around Python Enhancement Proposals (PEPs). These documents:

  • Propose new language features
  • Document design decisions
  • Define standards and processes
  • Capture community discussion and consensus

Python’s Community

Beyond its technical foundations, Python thrives through its diverse, global community, including:

  • Local Python user groups
  • Online forums and chat channels
  • Conferences and meetups
  • Open source developers
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