Bitcoin (BTC) is a cryptocurrency (a virtual currency) designed to act as money and a form of payment outside the control of any one person, group, or entity. This removes the need for trusted third-party involvement (e.g., a mint or bank) in financial transactions.Bitcoin was introduced to the public in 2008 by an anonymous developer or group of developers using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It has since become the
most well-known and largest cryptocurrency
in the world. Its popularity has inspired the development of many other cryptocurrencies.Read on to learn more about the
cryptocurrency
that started it all—the history behind it, how to buy it, mine it, and what it can be used for.