This article explains how blockchain technology moves us from the "Internet of Information" to the "Internet of Value." It eliminates the need for trusted third parties, allowing for secure, direct transfers of original assets—not just copies—with transformative potential for finance, governance, and art.

The article traces the evolution of the blockchain concept from the ancient Rai stones of Yap to the creation of Bitcoin. It explains how the core idea of a distributed ledger, based on collective trust, solved the problem of double-spending throughout history. The piece also describes how cryptography and peer-to-peer networks enabled the digital implementation of this idea, leading to Bitcoin, Ethereum's smart contracts, and new decentralized applications that are transforming various industries.

This article explains the key differences between centralized systems (like banks) and decentralized systems (like Bitcoin). It highlights how decentralization offers greater security, transparency, and financial freedom while acknowledging that centralized systems remain more user-friendly. The piece encourages readers to explore cryptocurrencies as a way to take control of their money and data.

Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency created in 2009 that operates without central authority using blockchain technology. With a limited supply of 21 million coins, it enables peer-to-peer transactions globally with minimal fees. While offering advantages like financial freedom and protection against inflation, Bitcoin also faces challenges including price volatility and regulatory concerns as it continues to evolve as both a digital currency and store of value.

This article explains that blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger technology where data is stored in secure, immutable blocks linked together in a chain. It serves as the foundation for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, enabling secure peer-to-peer transactions without central authorities through cryptographic principles like public and private keys. The text highlights key advantages including transparency, security, limited supply creating digital scarcity, and diverse applications beyond finance such as smart contracts and decentralized organizations.

Cryptography is the science of securing information by converting it into coded form, ensuring only authorized parties can access it. It evolved from ancient methods like the Caesar cipher to modern algorithms that protect digital communications, financial transactions, and data integrity. As the foundation for technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrencies, cryptography enables key functions such as encryption, digital signatures, and hashing to ensure confidentiality, authenticity, and security in our digital world.