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@ The Rabbit Hole
2024-11-23 16:58:09Ever wondered about the origins of the iconic "Laser Eyes" meme in Bitcoin culture? Let’s dive into its fascinating history and significance.
While on the Criptoverso podcast, I wore a shirt with the phrase “Laser Eyes Until Fiat Dies.” When asked about its meaning, I explained it signifies unwavering commitment to Bitcoin. But there’s a deeper story behind this phrase—one that transformed a simple meme into a powerful symbol of unity and optimism for the Bitcoin community.
The Birth of “Laser Eyes”
In 2020, as Bitcoin Twitter gained momentum, a user with fewer than 300 followers found a creative outlet in making memes to connect with the growing community of Bitcoin enthusiasts, affectionately known as “Plebs.” Inspired by influential figures like American HODL—a Bitcoin maximalist known for his irreverent humor and critique of fraud—the user crafted memes to engage the community. One of his first creations, a sharp response to a Bitcoin critic, earned a retweet from American HODL. The recognition fueled his passion for meme creation, and he soon joined forces with other creators in a collaborative group known as the Meme Factory.
This “Meme Factory” became a hub for humor, creativity, and camaraderie, bolstering the Bitcoin community during market downturns. Their memes became rallying cries, reinforcing the shared identity of Bitcoiners as a “swarm of cyber wasps,” buzzing with energy and defiance.
The Rise of the Laser Eyes Campaign
By late 2020, the Meme Factory began organizing themed avatar campaigns, such as holiday-themed profile pictures, to foster unity. These efforts culminated in February 2021, as Bitcoin surged towards $50,000.
The “Laser Eyes” concept emerged when a member of the Meme Factory asked for help enhancing a meme by adding laser eyes to a kangaroo. Inspired, the creator designed laser-eyed avatars for the entire group. The idea quickly evolved into a full-blown campaign: #LaserRayUntil100K, a pledge for the community to sport laser eyes until Bitcoin reached $100,000.
When Bitcoin hit $50,000 on February 16, 2021, the Meme Factory launched the campaign. Within days, the meme exploded across the Bitcoin community, embraced by everyone from celebrities to politicians. The striking red laser eyes became a visual statement of belief in Bitcoin’s potential as a global store of value, a symbol of resistance against traditional fiat systems, and a nod to Satoshi Nakamoto’s revolutionary vision.
Beyond Memes: A Symbol of Commitment
The success of the “Laser Eyes” campaign highlighted the power of memes to unite a community, inject humor into volatility, and promote optimism amid criticism. For many, laser eyes transcended mere aesthetics; they became a badge of solidarity and a public declaration of commitment to Bitcoin.
What Happens When Bitcoin Hits $100K?
The big question remains: once Bitcoin crosses the $100,000 milestone, what’s next? The answer is simple.
“Laser Eyes Until Fiat Dies.”
The mission doesn’t end—it evolves. After all, Bitcoin isn’t just a currency; it’s a revolution.
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