The primary goal of Bitcoin is to provide a decentralized, digital alternative to traditional fiat currencies. It aims to provide a more secure, transparent, and efficient way of conducting financial transactions without the use of intermediaries such as banks.

Bitcoin was created in response to the 2008 financial crisis and was intended to provide a solution to the trust and control issues inherent in the centralized banking system. It eliminates the need for intermediaries by operating on a decentralized network, enabling direct, peer-to-peer transactions.

Bitcoin, like gold, is seen as a store of value in addition to being a currency. Its limited supply, with only 21 million bitcoins ever created, and decentralized nature make it valuable.