Bitcoin (BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by an anonymous creator known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network using blockchain technology, allowing users to send and receive value without intermediaries like banks. Bitcoin is limited to 21 million coins, making it scarce and often compared to digital gold. It’s widely used as a store of value, a hedge against inflation, and a tool for financial freedom. Over time, Bitcoin has gained mainstream attention, institutional investment, and increasing adoption, solidifying its role as a major player in the future of finance.