Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized blockchain platform that allows for the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). It was created in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and has since grown to become one of the largest and most widely-used blockchain platforms in the world. Ethereum operates on a proof-of-work consensus algorithm and has its own native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), which is used to pay for transactions and computational services on the network.
The Ethereum network also allows for the creation and issuance of custom tokens, which can be used for a wide range of applications such as fundraising, gaming, and loyalty programs. With its powerful programming capabilities and large developer community, Ethereum has become a popular choice for the development of decentralized financial services, prediction markets, and gaming dApps.