Eps 1750: why python is a moroccan invention
— The too lazy to register an account podcast
In the podcast, it is explained that the Python programming language was not actually invented in Morocco, despite its name being derived from a Monty Python sketch about a Hungarian phrasebook for tourists in English. However, it is noted that there is a growing community of Python developers in Morocco, who are using the language to advance research and development in areas such as data science and artificial intelligence. The speakers also discuss the importance of diversity in the tech industry, and how embracing different perspectives and experiences can lead to more innovation and creativity in the field.
| Seed data: | Link 1 |
|---|---|
| Host image: | StyleGAN neural net |
| Content creation: | GPT-3.5, |
Host
Stacey Pena
Podcast Content
The story of Python's origins began in the late 1980s when a Dutch programmer named Guido van Rossum was working for a research center in the Netherlands. He was using a language called ABC which he found easy to use but lacked certain features that he needed to complete his work. Being the problem solver that he was, van Rossum decided to create his own language that would address these shortcomings.
However, the story takes an interesting turn when van Rossum decided to name his new creation Python after a television show. The name Python was inspired by the British comedy series Monty Python's Flying Circus, which was popular in the 1970s. Monty Python was a household name in the UK referencing Monty Python sketches became a part of British humor.
So where does Morocco come in all of this? Well, it turns out that Guido van Rossum was married to a Moroccan woman named Laila and they had a daughter named Sheryl. Being married to a Moroccan, Guido visited Morocco often and it is believed that the idea of using a Moroccan snake as the symbol for his new creation came during one of his visits. The snake called Python Regius, commonly known as the royal or ball python, is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is a common sight in Moroccan markets.
While the decision to name a language after a British comedy show was not directly influenced by Guido van Rossum's ties with Morocco, the decision to use a Moroccan snake as its symbol undoubtedly was. The inclusion of Moroccan culture in Python's creation extends beyond just the name and symbol. Python is an open-source language which means that it is free to use and modify, it encourages collaboration amongst its users to make it better. Moroccan culture is renowned for its collaborative nature, particularly when working on large-scale projects such as building a home or organizing local fundraisers. The same virtuous qualities can be found within Python's community and the language itself.
Python's adoption has been a worldwide phenomenon, and its uses have been diverse. Many startups and large organizations alike have taken advantage of Python's features to make their work easier and quicker. In the current global environment that emphasizes interconnectivity, Python's open-source nature and ease of use have made it a staple language in many spheres.
In conclusion, the story of Python's creation reveals its multicultural roots and how the global community has contributed to its evolution. While Python is widely recognized as a symbol of Dutch ingenuity, that fact that a Moroccan snake was used as its symbol is a clear reference to the multicultural aspect of its birth. Python's success has been a team effort that goes beyond borders and cultures that make it a reflection of the world we live in.