Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency that operates without a central authority or government. Created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin allows users to send and receive value over the internet securely and transparently. It is built on blockchain technology, a distributed ledger that records all transactions publicly. Bitcoin is limited to a maximum supply of 21 million coins, making it deflationary by design. It is often referred to as "digital gold" because of its scarcity and use as a store of value. Over time, Bitcoin has gained global attention as an investment, payment method, and foundation for broader cryptocurrency development.