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how do you get newcomers to understand what bitcoin is?
I usually explain that Bitcoin is a digital currency that isn't controlled by a central bank or government. I also mention that it allows people to send money directly to each other without relying on traditional financial institutions and it can be much cheaper. For example, Western Union might charge $10 or more to send someone $100, depending on where you're sending it. On the Bitcoin network, the transaction fee could be less than $1, and on Lightning, it could be just a few cents or less. Of course, converting between Bitcoin and regular currency can introduce additional fees but I think it's a much better way to send money.
I also wrote a book called Blockchain Lords: The Battle for Bitcoin, which uses historical fiction to introduce newcomers to Bitcoin and some of the major events in its history. Hopefully, it will help people understand Bitcoin while enjoying a good story. :)
I don't usually recommend that newcomers read the Bitcoin whitepaper. Not because it isn't important, but because I don't think it's the best introduction to Bitcoin. The whitepaper is primarily a technical explanation of how Bitcoin enables peer-to-peer electronic cash. It doesn't really address many of the practical questions newcomers have about Bitcoin.
Funny thing, I recently paid about $12 to transfer $1,000 from a U.S. bank to an overseas bank. And after examining my bank statements, I discovered that withdrawing $1,000 through overseas ATMs could cost me almost $60 in fees - it seems criminal. Experiences like these make me appreciate the original vision described in the whitepaper. But I think newcomers are better served by first understanding what Bitcoin is, why it matters, and how they can actually use it. Then, if they are interested, they can read the whitepaper.