Bitcoin, the world’s most famous cryptocurrency, has crossed a major milestone, surpassing $100,000 in value for the first time. However, Bitcoin’s history remains shrouded in mystery, with its creator, known by the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, remaining unidentified. Despite various claims, including one from Australian computer scientist Craig Wright, the true identity of Nakamoto has not been proven. Bitcoin was initially designed to be a decentralized alternative to traditional banking systems, enabling peer-to-peer payments without relying on central banks.

The cryptocurrency world has also witnessed significant challenges, including bankruptcies and legal issues surrounding prominent figures. Changpeng Zhao, the former head of Binance, was jailed for violating US anti-money laundering laws, and FTX’s founder, Sam Bankman-Fried, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for fraud. These scandals have tarnished the reputation of the crypto industry, although many still advocate for clearer regulation.

Despite the controversies, Bitcoin has gained credibility in recent years. The approval of Bitcoin ETFs by US financial regulators in 2023, alongside El Salvador's adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender, has helped improve Bitcoin’s standing in mainstream finance. However, in El Salvador, the population remains largely indifferent to Bitcoin, with 88% not using it as of 2023. Bitcoin operates on blockchain technology, a secure and immutable virtual ledger, and is mined by solving complex problems through energy-intensive computing processes. The total supply of Bitcoin is capped at 21 million coins, making it scarce and potentially more valuable as time progresses.