What is Bitcoin?

Bitcoin, introduced to the world in a 2008 white paper by an individual or group under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, represents the first decentralized cryptocurrency, a radical innovation that proposed a new form of money free from central authority control. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments (fiat currencies), Bitcoin is created, distributed, traded, and stored using a decentralized ledger system known as a blockchain, essentially a public database that records all transactions across a network of computers. The genesis block of Bitcoin was mined in January 2009, marking the inception of the world's first cryptocurrency, which was designed to enable online payments to be sent directly from one party to another without going through a financial institution. This was a response to the 2008 financial crisis, aiming to provide an alternative to the trust-based, fallible financial system by offering a system based on cryptographic proof. Bitcoins are "mined" through a process that involves using computer power to solve complex mathematical problems, thus securing the network and verifying transactions, a process that also releases new bitcoins into circulation, albeit at a diminishing rate until the capped limit of 21 million coins is reached. Over the years, Bitcoin has garnered immense popularity and controversy, experiencing dramatic price fluctuations and sparking debates about its value, security, and potential as an investment. Despite skepticism, it has paved the way for the development of thousands of subsequent cryptocurrencies, collectively known as altcoins, and the broader adoption of blockchain technology in various sectors. Bitcoin's anonymous nature has led to discussions about its use for illegal transactions; however, its transparency and security have also been lauded for providing a blueprint for a future where financial systems are more resilient against fraud, censorship, and central failures. The evolution of Bitcoin from an obscure digital token to a new asset class highlights its profound impact on the financial world and its potential to challenge conventional monetary systems.