2.2 Ledger & Proof Model
The ledger is the structural backbone of VeriSeal.
It is not a blockchain. It is a deterministic append-only integrity journal.
Proof Entry Structure
Each proof entry contains:
- proof_identifier (hash or merkle_root)
- metadata reference
- timestamp (UTC)
- previous entry hash
This creates chain continuity.
Immutability Principle
The ledger is:
- Append-only
- Hash-linked
- Deterministic
Any historical alteration invalidates forward continuity.
Public Identifier Stability
The proof identifier:
{merkle_root}
Functions as:
- Permanent public reference
- Cross-system integrity anchor
- Audit-stable identifier
It must remain stable over time.
Institutional Advantage
Unlike blockchain-based systems:
- No probabilistic consensus
- No fork instability
- No dependency on external miners
Integrity is mathematical. Not political.