Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency that operates without a central authority, such as a bank or government. It was introduced in 2009 by an anonymous individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin transactions are verified by network nodes through cryptography and recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain. This system allows peer-to-peer transactions to occur securely and transparently.

Bitcoin is often referred to as “digital gold” due to its limited supply—only 21 million bitcoins will ever be mined. This scarcity, combined with increasing demand, has contributed to its value growth over time. Unlike traditional currencies, Bitcoin is not controlled by any single entity, which makes it resistant to censorship and inflation.