Polkadot is a Layer 0 multi-chain network that allows different blockchains to interoperate. Created by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood, it uses a relay chain and parachain architecture letting multiple specialised blockchains run in parallel and communicate securely.
2016
Gavin Wood publishes Polkadot whitepaper
2020
Mainnet launches in stages
2021
First parachain slot auctions — Acala wins the first slot
2023
Polkadot 2.0 announced — agile core time replaces slot auctions
Cross-chain interoperability, specialised blockchain deployment, parachain auctions
💡 Did You Know
Gavin Wood invented the Solidity programming language for Ethereum before leaving to build Polkadot
⚠ Controversies & Red Flags
Polkadot's parachain slot auction system created a controversial model where projects must lock up large amounts of DOT to win a deployment slot.