What is Genesis Block?
Let's find out Genesis Block meaning, definition in crypto, what is Genesis Block, and all other detailed facts.
Genesis block, block 0, or block 1, is the first block that starts a new blockchain. In many cases, the genesis block is hardcoded into the blockchain application software.
After the genesis block, all new validated blocks that usually contain transactions and other activity data are attached via a "chain", forming the blockchain. Despite the name, there is no actual chain binding the blocks together. However, they all contain data that references the previous block and derive their value from the preceding blocks.
The genesis block is the only one that does not contain any reference to a predecessor block by design. In most cases, the mining rewards unlocked from validating and processing the genesis block are considered unspendable.
As the name suggests, genesis blocks form the foundation of blockchain technology. The first-ever genesis block was mined on 9 January 2009 and marked the beginning of not just blockchain technology but also cryptocurrencies, specifically Bitcoin.
The genesis block of Bitcoin contained the message "The Times 03/Jan/2009 Chancellor on brink of second bailout for banks" which referenced the global financial crisis. The Bitcoin genesis block contained a reward of 50 BTC.
The genesis block was created by Satoshi Nakamoto, an anonymous entity (or entities), also known as the creator of Bitcoin. There have been some questions and speculations regarding the six-day interval between the time quoted in the genesis block message and its actual date of release.