R is a programming language and software environment for statistical analysis, graphics, and reporting. It was created at the University of Auckland for statistical analysis and graphics. R provides tools for data analysis including statistical functions, data handling, graphical display, and importing/exporting data from other programs like Excel. Some key data types in R are vectors, lists, matrices, and data frames. R can also perform regression analysis and create graphical outputs like pie charts, bar plots, and histograms.