Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized network called blockchain, which records all transactions transparently and securely. Bitcoin is often referred to as "digital gold" because of its limited supply of 21 million coins and its use as a store of value. It is widely used for investment, trading, and as a decentralized alternative to traditional currencies. Over the years, Bitcoin has played a key role in shaping the global cryptocurrency and blockchain industry.