When Was The Concept of Ethereum Classic First Proposed:History Of This Blockchain
When Was The Concept of Ethereum Classic First Proposed:History Of This Blockchain

Discover when the concept of Ethereum Classic was first proposed, its origins, and how it diverged from Ethereum. Learn the history of this blockchain.

Introduction

Ethereum Classic is one of the most well-known blockchain networks in the cryptocurrency space. But have you ever wondered when the concept of Ethereum Classic was first proposed? This article takes you on a journey through its origins, the infamous DAO hack, and the philosophical divide that led to the birth of Ethereum Classic.

Table of Contents

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1What Is Ethereum Classic?
2The Birth of Ethereum
3What Was The DAO?
4The DAO Hack: A Turning Point
5Ethereum's Hard Fork: A Controversial Decision
6Ethereum Classic First Proposed?
7The Philosophical Divide: Code Is Law
8Ethereum vs. Ethereum Classic: Key Differences
9Adoption and Community Support
10Security and Technical Upgrades
11Price Trends and Market Performance
12Future of Ethereum Classic
13FAQs About Ethereum Classic

What Is Ethereum Classic?

Ethereum Classic (ETC) is a decentralized blockchain that runs smart contracts, just like Ethereum. It preserves the original Ethereum codebase, which split after a controversial event in 2016. Unlike Ethereum (ETH), Ethereum Classic remains committed to immutability—the principle that the blockchain should never be altered, even in extreme situations.

The Birth of Ethereum

Ethereum was launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and a group of developers who envisioned a decentralized world computer. It introduced smart contracts—self-executing contracts that run on blockchain technology. The Ethereum network quickly gained traction, attracting developers and businesses looking to build decentralized applications (dApps).

What Was The DAO?

The Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) was an ambitious project launched in 2016. It was essentially a venture capital fund powered by smart contracts, allowing investors to vote on projects. The DAO raised over $150 million worth of Ether (ETH) from investors, making it one of the largest crowdfunding campaigns in history.

The DAO Hack: A Turning Point

Shortly after its launch, hackers found a loophole in The DAO’s code and exploited it, siphoning 3.6 million ETH (roughly $60 million at the time) into a separate account. This event shook the Ethereum community, leading to intense debates on how to handle the situation.

Ethereum's Hard Fork: A Controversial Decision

To recover the stolen funds, Ethereum developers proposed a hard fork—a radical change that would effectively reverse the hack. This fork created a new version of Ethereum (ETH), where the stolen funds were returned. However, a group of purists believed that code should remain immutable, regardless of external events. They rejected the fork and continued running the original blockchain, which became Ethereum Classic.

Ethereum Classic First Proposed?

The concept of Ethereum Classic was first proposed in mid-2016, right after the DAO hack and the Ethereum hard fork. Those who opposed the fork maintained that the original Ethereum blockchain should be preserved under the philosophy of "Code is Law." By July 2016, Ethereum Classic was officially recognized as an independent blockchain network.

The Philosophical Divide: Code Is Law

Ethereum Classic supporters strongly believe in the principle of immutability, meaning that transactions should never be altered or reversed. This contrasts with Ethereum’s approach, which prioritizes network security and user protection, even if it means making exceptions.

Ethereum vs. Ethereum Classic: Key Differences

  • Governance: Ethereum has a more flexible governance structure, while Ethereum Classic maintains strict immutability.

  • Smart Contract Functionality: Both blockchains support smart contracts, but Ethereum Classic does not adopt upgrades like Ethereum’s transition to Proof-of-Stake (PoS).

  • Security: Ethereum Classic has been vulnerable to 51% attacks due to lower network security.

Adoption and Community Support

Ethereum has a larger developer and business ecosystem, but Ethereum Classic maintains a dedicated community of purists and miners who believe in its vision.

Security and Technical Upgrades

Ethereum Classic has faced multiple security challenges, including 51% attacks, where attackers gained majority control of the network. Efforts have been made to enhance security, including network upgrades and partnerships with security firms.

Price Trends and Market Performance

Ethereum Classic’s price has seen highs and lows, often mirroring Ethereum’s price movements. While it remains a viable cryptocurrency, it does not have the same mainstream adoption as Ethereum.

Future of Ethereum Classic

Despite challenges, Ethereum Classic continues to evolve. Developers are working on enhancing security and scalability, but its long-term success depends on community support and adoption.

When Was The Concept of Ethereum Classic First Proposed:History Of This Blockchain


FAQs About Ethereum Classic

1. Why did Ethereum split into Ethereum and Ethereum Classic?

Ethereum split due to disagreements over how to handle The DAO hack. The main Ethereum network reversed the hack, while Ethereum Classic continued with the original blockchain.

2. Is Ethereum Classic still relevant?

Yes, Ethereum Classic remains relevant for those who value immutability and decentralized governance. 

3. Can Ethereum Classic overtake Ethereum?

While possible, it is unlikely due to Ethereum’s strong developer support, widespread adoption, and continuous upgrades.

4. What is the biggest challenge Ethereum Classic faces?

The biggest challenge is security, as it has been targeted by multiple 51% attacks. Strengthening network security is a priority for its community.

5. Should I invest in Ethereum Classic?

Investment decisions depend on your risk tolerance and belief in its philosophy. It has potential but also faces security and adoption challenges.


Conclusion Ethereum Classic was born out of a philosophical disagreement over blockchain immutability. First proposed in mid-2016, it remains a significant player in the crypto world. Whether you support Ethereum Classic or Ethereum, both networks continue to shape the future of blockchain technology.