Satoshi Nakamoto

Creator, Bitcoin. Author of "Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System"

Developed the world's first decentralized cryptocurrency, Bitcoin; authored the Bitcoin white paper (published October 31, 2008) and created and deployed Bitcoin's original reference implementation. Also devised the first open-ledger blockchain database and mined its genesis block on January 3, 2009.

Inspired by free market, laissez-faire ideology, Bitcoin is authenticated and maintained by node operators and miners, using Proof-of-Work (PoW) and AES/SHA-256 encryption and hashing, ensuring unparalleled data integrity and authenticity. No central authority is necessary.

Used the world over as a store of value, for facilitating cross-border payments), as a tool for freedom of speech/creative expression and as high-volume peer-to-peer currency exchange(s), it is sometimes referred to as "digital gold."

In 2021, El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as legal tender. In January 2024, the SEC approved the first 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) for use on American stock exchanges.

- Brock Angelle Thibodeaux