The release of new emails and files related to the notorious financier Jeffrey Epstein has sent shockwaves through various sectors of American society, particularly among the ranks of intellectuals, technologists, and crypto enthusiasts. The latest documents, unveiled by the Department of Justice, have revealed striking connections between Epstein and numerous prominent figures, including leftist academic Noam Chomsky and several tech leaders like Bill Gates and the co-founders of Google.
Among the most alarming discoveries for the crypto community is Epstein’s active participation in the early stages of cryptocurrency development. As highlighted by crypto investor Patrick Riley, an email exchange between Epstein and Joichi Ito, former head of MIT’s Media Lab, indicates that Epstein played a significant role in financing initiatives crucial to the growth of digital currencies. In one email, Ito thanks Epstein for using gift funds that helped secure funds swiftly for the Digital Currency Initiative, a program pivotal in the emergence of crypto.
Riley noted that when this email was written, Bitcoin’s code had about 12,000 commits, while it swelled to over 47,000 today. This means that a substantial portion—nearly 75%—of Bitcoin’s code development has occurred since Epstein became involved as a benefactor, leading to a stark backlash from crypto advocates.
In response to the revelations, some members of the crypto community expressed outrage and dismay. A social media account known as Crypto Bitlord articulated a widespread sentiment, bemoaning that a significant portion of Bitcoin’s development funding had indirectly supported Epstein’s network. Comments flooded in, with many lamenting that the digital currency has been linked with an “elite global pedophile ring” since 2015.
Further complicating matters, the emails also shed light on the potential connections between Epstein and Bitcoin’s elusive creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. One email suggests that Nakamoto may have actually been a coalition of five core developers engaged in discussions with Epstein. Notably, early Bitcoin contributor Adam Back was reportedly part of this group. Correspondence shows that Ito proposed a meeting between Back and Epstein to discuss the future of finance and cryptocurrency, with plans for a trip organized to Epstein’s private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The revelations sparked heated discussions within the community, with many questioning the ethical implications of the long-standing financial links between Epstein and the crypto industry. As investigations continue and more files come to light, the extent of Epstein’s influence on a sector already beleaguered by questions of regulation and legitimacy remains a pressing concern.
