In 2013, Buterin published a whitepaper outlining his vision for Ethereum, a decentralized platform that would enable the creation of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). He saw an opportunity to build a platform that would go beyond just digital currency and enable a decentralized internet.

The Ethereum Project

Buterin's vision for Ethereum was ambitious, and he spent countless hours developing the project. He was joined by a team of developers, including Gavin Wood, Charles Hoskinson, and Anthony Di Iorio, and together they launched the Ethereum project in 2014. The project raised over $18 million in a crowdsale, making it one of the largest crowdfunding campaigns in history at the time.

The Rise of Ethereum

Ethereum's popularity grew rapidly, and its smart contract platform became the go-to destination for developers building decentralized applications. The platform's flexibility and scalability made it an attractive choice for businesses and individuals alike. Today, Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, with a market cap of over $200 billion.

Buterin's Pivotal Role

Buterin's role in shaping Ethereum cannot be overstated. He is the driving force behind the project and has been instrumental in its development. His vision for a decentralized internet has inspired a generation of developers and entrepreneurs. Buterin's commitment to the project has also led to the creation of the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the development of the Ethereum ecosystem.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite Ethereum's success, Buterin has faced his fair share of challenges and controversies. The project has faced scalability issues, and the community has been divided on the best way to address them. Buterin has also been criticized for his leadership style and his approach to decision-making. However, through it all, Buterin has remained committed to his vision and has continued to work tirelessly to improve the platform.

Legacy and Impact

Buterin's legacy extends far beyond Ethereum. He has inspired a generation of developers and entrepreneurs to build decentralized applications and has played a pivotal role in shaping the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry. His commitment to decentralization and his vision for a decentralized internet have made him a hero to many in the cryptocurrency community.