Nick Szabo is a cryptographer who created a precursor to Bitcoin and is a prominent member of the cypherpunk community. As an important figure in Bitcoin’s history, many speculate he could even be Satoshi Nakamoto.

Throughout Bitcoin’s history, many have tried—and continue to try—to uncover the identity of its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.
These theories often point to individuals who had a significant impact on Bitcoin and were forerunners of the cryptocurrency, such as Nick Szabo.
Nick Szabo is a cryptographer, legal scholar, and member of the cypherpunk community who has made and continues to make a significant impact on the Bitcoin community.
He is also the creator of Bitgold, a precursor to Bitcoin and an inspiration for Satoshi Nakamoto.
Additionally, Szabo is the visionary behind smart contracts, which are now widely used in digital currency projects and tokens.
Let’s explore who Nick Szabo is, his background, and his contributions to shaping Bitcoin into what it is today.
...read more at blog.areabitcoin.co
“Inspired” is an interesting way of putting it ;)
Don't forget his article: Shelling Out: The Origins of Money
It's absolutely fascinating and really relevant to bitcoin. Here's a quote:
Nick hasn't written much lately, and he also seems to have disappeared from social media. I was very honoured to have him as one of my followers back in the days when I was on Twitter. I really admired his direct, no bs, and unapologetic style.
https://cointelegraph.com/news/early-meeting-of-e-gold-founders-may-hold-clue-to-satoshi-nakamoto-s-identity-peter-thiel
I have heard his name popping up lately. Was it on SN earlier?
yes!