If you've been using Steem for more than a day, then you've probably heard of @dan. If you haven't heard of @dan, then this article will introduce you to him. @dan has been part of steemit.inc from the start, in fact, he was the co-founder and main architect of the blockchain!
But who is @dan? And why does he have such a huge influence on Steem users?
@dan started his career as an average student. He got his Bachelor's of Engineering in Computer Sciences at Virginia Tech in 2003. While studying for his degree he also worked as a software developer intern at SAIC. After getting his degree in Computer Sciences, he went on to become CEO of Open Tech. He became a software engineer for Raytheon in 2004. Went back to Open Tech for 3 years. Became software engineer for TORC Robotics and later for Phoenix Integration.
While doing all of this he was also in discussions with Satoshi Nakamoto on bitcoin forums. After which he started developing the revolutionary software, Graphene, which powers Bitshares and the Steem blockchain.
During his discussions with Satoshi, he became increasingly alarmed at the rate which centralised Bitcoin exchanges were being shut down. This sparked the idea that the only way forward would be to create a completely decentralised exchange.
He discussed this idea with Charles Hoskinson, the later co-founder of Ethereum and Cardano. Who then helped @dan to pitch the idea to Li Xiaolai, a Chinese Bitcoin tycoon, who agreed to fund the development.
@dan wanted Bitshares to derive it's value from a built-in business. A decentralised bank/exchange. He did not want to ride on the backs of other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Dogecoin. But he realised that creating such a venture would take time, so instead he created Bitshares PTS. A Bitcoin clone that could be mined by early investors, and that could later be transformed into Bitshares.
@dan realised that mining, or proof of work, was flawed, in that it would create centralised control in countries with cheap electricity. So he then started working on an entirely new concept. DPOS (Delegated Proof Of Stake). This idea was met with optimism. And the Bitshares platform was built on it and launched on 19 July, 2014.
In March, 2016, @dan partnered up with @ned and together they launched the Steem blockchain. Steem is a social network where content creators get rewarded for upvotes. Unlike other social networks, Steem provides monetary incentives in the form of two coins. Steem, which can be staked to increase ones influence on the platform. And SBD, which can be freely traded on the market for fiat, or other cryptocurrencies.
I am not going to explain Steem in detail, because most of my readers are already using the platform. But I will mention this criticism that can be found on wikipedia: "Whether Steem succeeds as a digital currency will be more a reflection of Steemit’s success as a platform as opposed to the economics of the coin itself. This is a good example of a digital currency whose value will be closely affiliated to its utilitarian value as a social networking and sharing platform." - Joe Lee, co-founder and CIO of digital currency trading platform Magnr.
In order for the platform to survive, we need to create a positive atmosphere. We need active users and less drama. Thank you very much.
After stepping down as CTO for Steemit.inc in March of 2017, @dan started working on a new blockchain. This blockchain is called EOS. EOS is being developed by block.one. A software company registered in the Caymen Islands.
EOS aims to replace Ethereum. It will provide a blockchain based Operating System than can be forked and changed however you see fit. Apps, or DAPPS, can then run from these blockchains.
EOS claims to have no transaction fees and infinite scalability. Thus fixing all the problems we currently face with blockchain technology.
EOS is set to launch on June 1, 2018.
@dan is a visionary within the crypto space. He is working hard to find free market solutions to secure life, liberty, and property for all. He is always innovating, always thinking of the future, and always bringing us the "next big thing".
