On March 6, 2014, Newsweek released a story written by Leah Goodman. In this story, Ms. Goodman claimed to have uncovered the identity of the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, creator of Bitcoin. The article starts with proclamations that seem to suggest that Leah was observing Satoshi Nakamoto directly in front of her, and that the man admitted to being the creator of Bitcoin through an out of context comment. This man was Dorian Nakamoto, and he is not the creator of Bitcoin. Dorian Nakamoto did not even know what Bitcoin was before Leah brought it to his attention. The offhanded comment Mr. Nakamoto made was not an admission of guilt, but rather a blanket statement from a retired man who had been involved with multiple large companies, and the US Government, for most of his career.
How Can Bitcoin Help Dorian?
In March 7, 2014, Andreas Antonopoulos started a charity fund for Dorian Nakamoto, in an attempt to ease the stress placed on him after the erroneous Newsweek story. The Bitcoin community quickly rallied behind him, and the outpouring of support has been impressive. A total of 49.18 BTC has been donated at this time, and the various communities, forums, subreddits, and social networks have lit up with condemnation for Ms. Goodman’s story, as well as gestures of compassion and reassurance for Mr. Nakamoto.
On April 22, 2014 Mr. Antonopoulos delivered the wallet to Mr. Nakamoto, and Andreas released a statement from Dorian, in the form of a YouTube video, expressing his gratitude for the assistance. According to Mr. Nakamoto, while he did not know about Bitcoin before, he will now join the community, and contribute what he can to this movement.
A Welcome from the Bitcoin Community
As a member of the Bitcoin community myself, let me say: Welcome Mr. Dorian Nakamoto. I, and the majority of the Bitcoin community, stand behind you in support. We sympathize with your situation. What Ms. Goodman did to you was unconscionable, and hopefully the fund that was delivered to you will help to repair some of the damage. You may not be the Satoshi Nakamoto that started Bitcoin, but we are happy to have you with us nonetheless.
