Bitcoin ($BTC ) was released on January 3, 2009 by an individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. The identity of Satoshi Nakamoto remains unknown to this day.
Genesis Block (Block 0): Mined on January 3, 2009.
First Bitcoin Software Release: Version 0.1 was released shortly after, on January 9, 2009.
1. The Genesis Block Message
The very first block of Bitcoin (the Genesis Block) contains this embedded message:
“The Times 03/Jan/2009 Chancellor on brink of second bailout for banks”
This headline, from The Times (UK), is believed to be both a timestamp and a political statement about the failures of traditional banking, which Bitcoin was created to counter.
2. Theories About Satoshi’s Identity
Despite numerous investigations, Satoshi’s true identity remains a mystery, but here are some popular theories:
Nick Szabo – Creator of “Bit Gold,” a predecessor to Bitcoin. Very technically aligned, but denies being Satoshi.
Hal Finney – Received the first BTC transaction from Satoshi. A highly respected cryptographer and early Bitcoin contributor.
Dorian Nakamoto – Misidentified by the media; he has denied involvement.
Craig Wright – Claims to be Satoshi but lacks conclusive proof; widely disputed.
3. Satoshi’s Disappearance
Satoshi was active in forums and emails until 2010, then slowly faded away. The last known message was in 2011, stating:
“I’ve moved on to other things.”
4. Satoshi’s Wallet
It’s believed Satoshi mined about 1 million BTC in the early days. These coins have never moved, leading many to believe that Satoshi is either deceased or has chosen to stay completely anonymous.
