Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain-based platform that allows developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts. It was first proposed in 2013 by Vitalik Buterin, and the network was launched in 2015.

Ethereum is often referred to as the “world computer” because it allows developers to write code that can run on the blockchain, enabling them to create a wide range of decentralized applications that can be used for various purposes, such as finance, gaming, voting, and more.

One of the main features of Ethereum is its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), which is used to pay for transaction fees and computational services on the network. Ethereum also has its programming language, Solidity, which is used to write smart contracts that can be executed on the blockchain.

Ethereum has become one of the most popular blockchain platforms and has a significant impact on the development of the broader cryptocurrency and blockchain ecosystem.