Blockchain: What is it, and why does it matter?

The person or people behind blockchain which, was created alongside bitcoin, goes by the presumed pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto.

You've almost certainly heard the term blockchain. But you probably have no idea what it is or how it works, let alone why it generates so much hype. That's OK. Most people don't.

That hasn't kept it from becoming a buzzword thrown around in almost every industry, from finance to shipping to fantasy football. A-list companies like Amazon, Facebook, IBM, and Walmart believe blockchain technology can track shipments, store data more efficiently, among other things. They aren't alone in embracing the technology, which many people believe could revolutionize logistics, food safety, banking, and even voting.

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