General
Beginner
Updated 1/15/2025
What is
Genesis Block?
The very first block of a blockchain (block 0), which establishes the initial state and from which all subsequent blocks are derived.
The genesis block is the foundational first block (block 0 or block 1) of any blockchain, hardcoded into the node software. It establishes the initial state of the network, including any pre-allocated coins, initial parameters, and often contains symbolic messages. Unlike subsequent blocks, the genesis block has no parent block reference. Ergo's genesis block was mined on July 1, 2019, marking the launch of mainnet with a fair distribution model - no pre-mine, no ICO, and all ERG created through mining emissions.
Key Points
- Block 0 (or 1) - the first block with no parent reference
- Hardcoded into node software, cannot be changed
- Establishes initial blockchain state and parameters
- Ergo genesis: July 1, 2019 - fair launch, no pre-mine
- Often contains symbolic messages (Bitcoin's famous headline)
- All subsequent blocks trace their ancestry to genesis
Use Cases
1
Verifying you're connected to the correct network (mainnet vs testnet)
2
Understanding blockchain history and fair launch principles
3
Calculating total blockchain age and block height
4
Historical reference for emission schedule calculations
Technical Details
Ergo's genesis block (height 0) was created on July 1, 2019 at 12:00:00 UTC. Unlike Bitcoin's genesis block which had 50 BTC, Ergo's genesis contained no coins - all ERG entered circulation through mining. The block established initial difficulty, protocol parameters, and the emission schedule. The genesis block hash serves as a unique identifier for the Ergo mainnet, distinguishing it from testnet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Genesis Block
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What can I do with Ergo?
Ergo supports a full ecosystem: trade on Spectrum DEX, use SigmaUSD stablecoin, mix transactions with ErgoMixer, collect NFTs on SkyHarbor, mine with GPUs, lend/borrow on DuckPools, bridge to other chains via Rosen, and build dApps with ErgoScript. It's a complete platform for decentralized finance and applications.
Explainer
Getting Started
Is Ergo a good investment?
This is not financial advice. Ergo has strong fundamentals: fair launch (no VC dump risk), innovative technology (eUTXO, Sigma Protocols, NiPoPoWs), active development, and a cypherpunk ethos. It's a smaller market cap project with higher risk/reward than established chains. Research thoroughly, understand the technology, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Comparison
Getting Started
How do miners earn money on Ergo?
Ergo miners earn from three sources: block rewards (newly minted ERG), transaction fees, and storage rent. Block rewards decrease over time according to the emission schedule, but storage rent ensures long-term income even after all ERG is mined. Most miners use pools for consistent payouts.
How-to
Mining
What is financial repression and how does Ergo help?
Financial repression includes capital controls, account freezes, surveillance, inflation, and restrictions on financial freedom. Governments use these tools to control citizens. Ergo provides escape: self-custody (no account freezes), privacy (no surveillance), censorship resistance (no blocked transactions), and sound money (no inflation).
Philosophy
Philosophy