> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.tetreum.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.tetreum.com/overview/introduction/background.md).

# Background

Blockchain networks have historically made trade-offs between decentralization, programmability, cost, and scale.

Bitcoin prioritized censorship resistance and decentralization. Ethereum expanded programmability and smart contracts. Many later alternatives improved performance, but often at the cost of complexity, fragmentation, or weaker developer adoption.

Tetreum is presented as a protocol that learns from those limitations. By combining Proof of Authority with full EVM compatibility, the network is intended to offer a more accessible and efficient foundation for:

* Real-world dApps
* Staking systems
* Governance-driven communities
* Cost-efficient transaction flows


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