Bitcoin ($BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network using blockchain technology, eliminating the need for banks or intermediaries. Bitcoin has a capped supply of 21 million coins, making it deflationary and attractive as “digital gold.” It's used for transactions, investment, and store of value. Its price is highly volatile, driven by market demand, regulations, and macroeconomic factors. Bitcoin has sparked the creation of thousands of other cryptocurrencies and is central to the global crypto ecosystem.