Julian Assange’s Connection to Bitcoin: How the Digital Currency Helped WikiLeaks in Times of Need

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is set to return to his home country of Australia as his legal battle with the U.S. government comes to a close. As he prepares to walk out as a “free man,” it’s worth examining the role that Bitcoin played in helping him during difficult times.

Assange and WikiLeaks faced censorship and financial blockades from major companies like PayPal, Visa, and MasterCard after releasing damning reports on military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. In response, Assange turned to Bitcoin to circumvent the banking ban, appealing for donations in June 2011. The response was overwhelming, with 171 Bitcoins donated in the first week alone, totaling $3,584 at the time.

Fast forward thirteen years, and Bitcoin has become one of the world’s most valuable financial assets, with one Bitcoin now worth over $61,000. The 171 Bitcoins raised by WikiLeaks in the first week would be worth more than $10 million today, showcasing the incredible growth of the digital currency.

Assange has long been a Bitcoin supporter, praising its scarcity and decentralized technology as powerful tools against censorship and monopolies. As he prepares to return home, his wife Stella Assange has made an emergency plea for donations to cover the $520,000 debt for his flight. Donations can be made via credit/debit card payments or Bitcoin.

Assange’s journey back to Australia highlights the enduring impact of Bitcoin and the support it provided during challenging times. As the digital currency continues to evolve, its role in empowering individuals and organizations against censorship and financial restrictions remains a powerful force in the world of finance.