[dorkmind]

> why did python decide to break backwards-compatibility

I think this is actually because of Mr. van Rossum's employment at Google. Taking money from one customer exclusively just killed Python's future. It would kill any ordinary business, too.

Programming languages are like religions...they survive on donations and free labor. I think Google should have been milked for cash and Python should have been used as a brand showcase for its donors in front of large conference crowds. Showing a bunch of stinking hippies that Corporate America (tm) is scrambling for a chance to throw money at you...it's a pretty picture!