US President Donald Trump has pardoned Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road online drug market, after he served over a decade in prison. Ulbricht, arrested at 29 in 2013, was sentenced to life without parole for his involvement in creating Silk Road. Trump had previously hinted at pardoning Ulbricht during his campaign and reportedly considered clemency in 2020. The cryptocurrency community has long advocated for Ulbricht's release, viewing him as a significant figure in Bitcoin's early adoption, despite the illegal nature of the platform. Ulbricht denied being the sole creator of the Silk Road, claiming he built on an existing concept. During his imprisonment, he remained vocal about Bitcoin and its principles, further solidifying his status as a controversial figure. His case highlights ongoing discussions about the intersection of cryptocurrency, legality, and freedom of trade in the digital age.

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