is hash map data structure available in Python?

[grbgooglefan]

Hi,
I have a situation that I need to search a name in a big list of names
in my Python embedded interpreter. I am planning to use hash map for
quicker search.
How do I create hash map in Python?
Can you please guide me to some documentation or tutorial which
provides information on creating, editing, searching through hash map
in Python?
Thanks.