Bitcoin ($BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network that allows users to send and receive payments without relying on a central authority like a bank or government. Bitcoin transactions are verified through a process called mining, which uses powerful computers to solve complex mathematical problems and maintain the blockchain—a public ledger of all transactions. With a fixed supply of 21 million coins, Bitcoin is often viewed as a hedge against inflation and a digital store of value, similar to gold. Over the years, it has gained significant attention from investors, institutions, and governments alike, influencing financial markets worldwide. Despite its volatility, Bitcoin continues to play a crucial role in the evolution of digital finance and decentralized technology.
