What is Ethereum Classic ?
Ethereum Classic: the parallel history of Ethereum and its ETC token ⛓️
When people mention Ethereum, they usually mean the widely used platform for dApps. But there’s another version, Ethereum Classic (ETC), which represents the original vision of Ethereum before the famous split.
Here’s a closer look at what makes Ethereum Classic unique.
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Why are there two Ethereums?
It all goes back to 2016, when the DAO hack shook the Ethereum community:
- Most chose to reverse the hack via a hard fork — this created today's Ethereum (ETH).
- A smaller group rejected this move, saying "code is law". They stuck with the original chain: Ethereum Classic (ETC).
ETC is the unchanged version of Ethereum, preserving the principles of immutability ⏳
How Ethereum Classic works
Ethereum Classic still uses Proof of Work, like Bitcoin:
- Smart contracts and dApps can run on the network
- Miners validate blocks and secure the chain
- It avoids major changes to remain truly decentralized
However, ETC doesn’t include Ethereum’s recent upgrades like Proof of Stake or rollups.
What is the ETC token used for?
ETC serves as:
- Transaction fees on the network
- Rewards for miners
- A governance tool (to a limited extent)
Although less active than ETH, ETC is still traded and used, especially by blockchain purists 🔒
Why choose ETC?
ETC appeals to:
- Those who believe in pure decentralization
- Users seeking a censorship-resistant network
- Miners who left Ethereum post-Merge
It also serves as a low-cost alternative for simpler dApp deployments.
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A resilient project with deep roots
Ethereum Classic may be the “other Ethereum,” but it’s far from obsolete. It continues to receive updates, and the ETC token is listed on most exchanges.
It’s a historical project that emphasizes core blockchain values over hype or rapid changes.