Why zlib not included in Python tarball?

["Martin v. Löwis"]

>  I need to install my own Python. I compiled Python 2.4.4 from sources. zlib 
> did not compile - it's not in the lib-dynload directory.
> 
> I did not have this problem with any of my earlier Python compiles. I 
> routinely compile Python from source.
> 
> What is the correct procedure for installing zlib from source into Python?

Depends on the operating system and the Python version. On Unix, you
need to install zlib first; if you install a precompiled zlib package,
make sure you install the header files as well.

Regards,
Martin