Bitcoin 101: What it is and why it matters

Bitcoin is a peer-to-peer electronic cash system invented in 2008 by Satoshi Nakamoto. Unlike traditional money, it has no central issuer and no single point of control. New bitcoin is created on a predictable schedule and the total supply will never exceed 21 million. What makes Bitcoin different is its combination of properties: it is scarce, durable, divisible, portable, verifiable, and censorship-resistant. The network has been running 24/7 since January 2009. For most people, the first step is buying a small amount, then learning to self-custody — meaning holding your own keys rather than trusting a third party. We cover that in detail in the wallet safety post.