What Are Decentralized Identifiers and Verifiable Credentials?

What are decentralized identifiers (DIDs) and verifiable credentials (VC)? What is their role in the decentralized identity framework and how can they help users take control of their data?

Further Reading:

• Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) Explained
• Overview of Decentralized Identities
• Verifiable Credentials Explained
• Decentralized Identifiers and Verifiable Credentials: The Building Blocks for Self-Controlled Identities