I think Python was conveniently there when teaching was looking to switch away from Java. Each wave of students exiting their institutions with a Python background made Python more popular in the field.
> Python was conveniently there when teaching was looking to switch away from Java. Each wave of students exiting their institutions with a Python background made Python more popular in the field
This, plus what other commentors have noted regarding Pythons early developments in academia, have had multiplying effects on adoption.
The alternatives were C, C++, some "academic" language like Lisp (which I wish had really broken into commerce more), Prolog etc., and eventually Java. Python was at such a higher level that it definitely made more sense as a first language for many people... especially since it was capable enough to be more than just a first language.
