Where did altcoins come from?

Ah, the origins of altcoins, indeed an intriguing subject. So, let's dive into the question, "Where did altcoins come from?" Altcoins, as we know, are alternative cryptocurrencies that emerged following the creation of Bitcoin, the world's first decentralized digital currency. The term "altcoin" is a blend of "alternative" and "coin", reflecting their status as alternatives to Bitcoin. These altcoins often seek to improve upon Bitcoin's original design or introduce new features and functionalities. The first altcoin, Litecoin, was created in 2011 by Charlie Lee, aiming to provide faster transaction speeds and lower fees than Bitcoin. Since then, the altcoin landscape has expanded exponentially, with hundreds of new coins emerging, each with its own unique purpose and technology. But the common thread that runs through all altcoins is their status as alternatives to Bitcoin, each seeking to carve out a niche in the ever-expanding crypto universe.