Create console in python

Question

I'm looking to have the same functionality (history, ...) as when you simply type python in your terminal. The script I have goes through a bunch of setup code, and when ready, the user should have a command prompt. What would be the best way to achieve this?

Answer 1

Run the script from the console with python -i. It will go through the commands and drop you in the usual Python console when it's done.

Answer 2

Either use readline and code the shell behaviour yourself, or simply prepare the environment and drop into IPython.