Yes, Milton Friedman was indeed a significant figure in the world of economics, advocating for free-market capitalism and minimal government interference. He predicted the rise of digital currencies back in the 1990s, saying, "The one thing that's missing, but that will soon be developed, is a reliable e-cash, a method whereby on the internet you can transfer funds from A to B without A knowing B or B knowing A".

Just my opinion, Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, might have been inspired by Friedman's ideas. Bitcoin was designed as a decentralized digital currency to operate outside the control of governments and central banks, aligning with Friedman's vision of a free market. Friedman's thoughts on e-cash and his advocacy for a competitive, decentralized financial system likely influenced the creation of Bitcoin. Just my opinioin though.