Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network without the need for intermediaries like banks. Bitcoin uses blockchain technology, a public digital ledger, to securely record all transactions. It has a fixed supply of 21 million coins, making it deflationary by design. BTC is often seen as digital gold due to its scarcity and role as a store of value. It can be used for payments, investment, and as a hedge against inflation and traditional financial instability.