Last month, I had the opportunity to attend the MIT Bitcoin Expo, an event that brought together some of the brightest minds in the cryptocurrency industry. During the event, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sjors Provoost, a Bitcoin Core developer.
Sjors’ journey into the world of Bitcoin is an interesting one. He began his career in a field that may seem unrelated – physics. However, as it turns out, this transition is not as uncommon as one may think. Sjors began contributing to Bitcoin Core in 2017, during a particularly turbulent period in the Bitcoin industry. At the time, the activation of Segregated Witness was unfolding, marking the culmination of the block size wars with the User Activated Softfork and the New York Agreement.
In addition to his work as a Bitcoin Core developer, Sjors also co-hosts a podcast titled ‘Bitcoin, Explained’ with Aaron van Wirdum, the current Editor in Chief of Bitcoin Magazine. As part of his effort to demystify the complex world of Bitcoin, he recently penned a book titled ‘Bitcoin: A Work In Progress.’ The book explores the technical aspects of Bitcoin, with each chapter corresponding to an episode of the podcast.
During our conversation, we delved into the Bitcoin Core project. We discussed its structure, what it’s like to work on such a project, and the challenges that can arise for those who decide to contribute directly to Bitcoin Core.
The Bitcoin Core project, Provoost explained, is a decentralized project, meaning that there’s no central authority making decisions. Everyone who contributes to the project does so voluntarily, driven by their passion for Bitcoin and the desire to ensure its continued success. However, this structure can pose challenges. For instance, reaching consensus on changes or improvements can be difficult due to the decentralized nature of the project.
Despite these challenges, working on the Bitcoin Core project is a rewarding experience, Provoost shared. It allows developers to contribute to the evolution of Bitcoin and shape the future of the world’s first and largest cryptocurrency.
His words serve as a reminder of the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving world of Bitcoin. It’s a testament to the dedication and commitment of those like Sjors Provoost, who are at the forefront of this revolutionary technology, working tirelessly to improve and evolve it.
For those interested in getting an in-depth look at our conversation, the full interview is available online. It provides fascinating insights into the world of Bitcoin development and the role of Bitcoin Core in the continued growth and success of this groundbreaking cryptocurrency.
In conclusion, the MIT Bitcoin Expo was an enriching experience, and the opportunity to sit down with Sjors Provoost provided a unique perspective into the world of Bitcoin development. His passion for the project and commitment to its success are truly inspiring and indicative of the bright future Bitcoin has ahead.
