Python Trademark Status

[David]

http://tess.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=o066qs.2.2

Typed Drawing
Word Mark
PYTHON
Goods and Services
IC  042.  US 100 101.  G & S: information services, namely,
providing computer programs, news, links, and documentation relating to
an object-oriented computer programming language and its development
environment.  FIRST USE: 19950718.  FIRST USE IN COMMERCE: 19950718
Mark Drawing Code
(1) TYPED DRAWING
Serial Number
76044902
Filing Date
May 9, 2000
Owner
(APPLICANT) Corporation for National Research Initiatives
CORPORATION D.C. 1895 Preston White Drive Reston VIRGINIA 20191
Attorney of Record
Keith A. Barritt
Type of Mark
SERVICE MARK
Register
PRINCIPAL
Live/Dead Indicator
LIVE


My own notes:  The trademark was filed on May 9, 2000.  First use is
documented as July, 1995.  In truth, Python was used as a name for the
programming language *years* before that date.
 
My impression of trademark law is that it is eminently sensible.  It exists
to prevent consumer confusion, and judgements are made based on the
likelyhood of confusion arising from trademark misuse.
 
I daresay that if CNRI splits their own version of the language from
Guido's development, it will cause extensive confusion.  Certainly *I*
expect "Python" to be the language that was invented and is directed by
Guido; not a language that is coming out of CNRI.
 
I don't want to cause headaches for CNRI and Guido, but I suggest that some
consideration be given regarding who should hold the trademark for the name
"Python" as applied to programming languages.  If the general feeling is
that CNRI should *not* be the trademark owner, then perhaps the TM office
needs to be contacted and the true history of Python revealed to them.  The
fact that they have lied regarding "first use" may be enough to stop the
application process.