Where was cryptocurrency invented? Learn the fascinating origins of digital currency, from early concepts like ecash and b-money to Bitcoin’s game-changing debut in 2009.

Cryptocurrency has deep roots, starting with David Chaum in 1983, who introduced ecash, a form of cryptographic electronic money. He later implemented it in 1995 via Digicash, enabling private, untraceable digital payments. In 1998, Wei Dai conceptualized b-money, a decentralized cash system, and Nick Szabo introduced bit gold, a precursor to Bitcoin’s proof-of-work system.

However, the true revolution came in 2009, when the enigmatic Satoshi Nakamoto launched Bitcoin, marking the birth of modern cryptocurrency. Using blockchain technology and cryptographic security, Bitcoin became the foundation for countless digital currencies that followed.

From academic theories to a global financial phenomenon, cryptocurrency’s journey showcases decades of innovation and persistence.