Bitcoin (BTC) is the world's first decentralized digital currency. Created in 2009 by an anonymous entity known as Satoshi Nakamoto, it operates on a technology called blockchain. This public, distributed ledger records all transactions, ensuring transparency and security without the need for a central authority like a bank or government.
BTC's limited supply (capped at 21 million coins) contributes to its perceived value. It functions as both a peer-to-peer payment system and a store of value, often likened to "digital gold." While volatile, its groundbreaking technology has revolutionized finance and inspired countless other cryptocurrencies.