Python License

This article analyzes the importance of Python License in today's society. Python License has been the subject of interest and debate for decades, and its influence extends to all areas of life. Since its inception, Python License has played a fundamental role in the way people relate to each other, in the development of culture and in the evolution of technology. Throughout history, Python License has been the subject of study in various disciplines, from psychology to economics, and its relevance is evident in the way it impacts our lives on a daily basis. In this article, the many facets of Python License will be explored and its influence on the contemporary world will be analyzed.

Python License
AuthorCorporation for National Research Initiatives
Latest version2.11 and newer
SPDX identifierPython-2.0, Python-2.0.1
FSF approvedYes[1]
OSI approvedYes
GPL compatibleSome versions[1][2]
CopyleftNo

The Python License is a deprecated permissive computer software license created by the Corporation for National Research Initiatives (CNRI). It was used for versions 1.6 and 2.0 of the Python programming language, both released in the year 2000.

The Python License is similar to the BSD License and, while it is a free software license, its wording in some versions meant that it was incompatible with the GNU General Public License (GPL) used by a great deal of free software including the Linux kernel. For this reason CNRI retired the license in 2001, and the license of current releases is the Python Software Foundation License.[3]

Origin

Python was created by Guido van Rossum and the initial copyright was held by his employer, the Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI). During this time Python was distributed under a GPL-compatible variant of the Historical Permission Notice and Disclaimer license.[4] CNRI obtained ownership of Python when Van Rossum became employed there, and after some years they drafted a new license for the language.

Retirement

The Python License includes a clause stating that the license is governed by the State of Virginia, United States. The Python Software Foundation License; Python 1.6.1 differs from Python 1.6 only in some minor bug fixes and new GPL-compatible licensing terms.[citation needed]

References

  1. ^ a b "License of Python 1.6a2 and earlier versions". Free Software Foundation. List of licenses.
    "License of Python 1.6b1 through 2.0 and 2.1". Free Software Foundation. List of licenses.
    "License of Python 2.0.1, 2.1.1, and newer versions". Free Software Foundation. List of licenses.
  2. ^ History and License Python
  3. ^ "Python 3.3.4 license". Retrieved April 15, 2014.
  4. ^ "Python 2.5 license (with historical notes)". Python.org. Retrieved March 31, 2008.