Even those who aren't familiar with cryptocurrencies have likely heard of Dogecoin. This digital currency gained attention because it was named after the famous "doge" internet meme featuring a Shiba Inu dog. Let's explore the story behind Dogecoin, which has become one of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.
THE BEGINNING
Although Dogecoin started as a joke, it has evolved into a serious cryptocurrency. Portland-based programmer Billy Marcus created it with the goal of developing an international currency that would appeal to a wide audience. He wanted to differentiate it from Bitcoin, which he felt had negative associations due to its links with illegal drug trading.
However, Dogecoin's technical foundation remains similar to Bitcoin's. It was built on Luckycoin, which came from Litecoin, which in turn was derived from Bitcoin. This shows Dogecoin's clear technical lineage to the original cryptocurrency.
Initially, mining rewards were random until March 2014, when they switched to a fixed system to provide more stability for miners. The developers took an unusual approach to supply: while they originally announced a cap of 100 billion coins, they later removed this limit, making Dogecoin infinitely mineable. By late 2014, just one year after launch, nearly 98 billion coins had been mined.
PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY
Dogecoin has become known for its involvement in charitable causes and community initiatives. The project's team has organized several successful fundraising campaigns.
A notable example occurred in early 2014 when they raised over $50,000 to help the Jamaican bobsled team attend the Winter Olympics after they qualified but lacked funding for equipment. Another successful campaign raised $55,000 to sponsor NASCAR driver Josh Wise, who agreed to feature the Dogecoin logo on his car.
Dogecoin demonstrates how a single individual turned an internet meme into a major cryptocurrency that now competes with established players like Bitcoin and Ethereum.