Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most famous cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by an unknown person or group under the name "Satoshi Nakamoto". The idea of Bitcoin came as an alternative solution to traditional financial systems, as it is not subject to the control of any central authority such as banks or governments, and instead relies on blockchain technology that provides transparency and security.
Bitcoin is characterized by its scarcity, as the maximum total supply is only 21 million coins, making it akin to digital gold. Users engage in the "mining" of Bitcoin using advanced computers to verify transactions and add them to the blockchain, and they are rewarded with new Bitcoin coins.
The currency has witnessed significant fluctuations in its value, ranging from less than a dollar in its early days to tens of thousands of dollars in recent years. Some consider Bitcoin a hedge against inflation, while others see it as a highly speculative tool.
Despite regulatory and technical challenges, Bitcoin continues to attract investors and institutions, and is considered a symbol of the digital financial revolution. Its future depends on the level of global adoption, the evolution of regulations, and its ability to adapt to changes in the world of economy and technology.