Bitcoin (BTC) is a digital currency, or cryptocurrency, that was created in 2009 by an unknown person using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a technology called blockchain, a decentralized ledger that records all transactions across a network of computers. Bitcoin is known for its peer-to-peer technology, allowing users to transact directly without any intermediary. It's often praised for its potential to disrupt traditional financial systems and has become the most recognized and widely used cryptocurrency worldwide.