How did people get bitcoin?

As a keen observer of the cryptocurrency landscape, I'm often asked the question: "How did people get bitcoin in the early days?" Well, the answer lies in the ingenuity of its creators and the early adopters. Initially, bitcoins were awarded to "miners" - individuals and groups who solve complex mathematical problems using specialized software and hardware. This process, known as mining, verifies transactions on the Bitcoin network and ensures its security. In return for their efforts, miners receive bitcoins as a reward. Additionally, bitcoins could also be purchased from early marketplaces and exchanges, though these avenues were far less prevalent in the initial stages. So, in essence, people got bitcoin through mining or purchasing it from those who had mined it.