Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most famous decentralized digital currency in the world, launched in 2009 by an unknown person or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin operates on blockchain technology, which is a public and distributed ledger that securely and transparently records all transactions.

Bitcoin is characterized by being a digital currency that is not under the control of any government or central bank, making it attractive to many as an alternative to traditional financial systems. Bitcoin is mined through a complex computational process, and there is a maximum limit of 21 million coins that can be mined, adding to its scarcity and value. Despite its price volatility, Bitcoin has become a means of payment, investment, and store of value, and continues to spark discussions about the future of money.