Perl, created by Larry Wall in 1987, is a high-level scripting language known for its powerful text manipulation capabilities, often used as a 'glue' language to connect compiled programs with scripting tasks. It offers features like extensive module support, runtime compilation, and is available on various platforms such as Unix, PC, and Mac. The document also mentions the Comprehensive Perl Archive Network (CPAN) for reusable Perl modules and provides training information from Wise Machines India Pvt Ltd.