Polkadot is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables interoperability between multiple blockchains, allowing them to securely exchange data and assets. Launched in 2020 by Dr. Gavin Wood, one of Ethereum’s co-founders, Polkadot’s key innovation is its ability to connect independent blockchains (parachains) under a unified network. Its native cryptocurrency, DOT, is used for governance, staking, and bonding new parachains to the network.