Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, was created by an unknown person or group of people using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto and released as open-source software in 2009. Bitcoin’s unique feature is its decentralized nature, meaning it operates without a central authority or single administrator. Transactions are verified by network nodes through cryptography and recorded in a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Unlike traditional currencies, Bitcoin has a cap on its total supply, set at 21 million coins. This scarcity aspect, along with its pioneering status, has contributed to its value and popularity. Despite initial skepticism, Bitcoin has inspired the creation of thousands of other cryptocurrencies and revolutionized the concept of digital currency.