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Scott Joplin, often referred to as the "King of Ragtime," was a highly influential and innovative composer and pianist. Here are some interesting facts about him:

1. Birth and Early Life: Scott Joplin was born around November 24, 1867, in Texarkana, Texas. He came from a musical family, and he learned to play the piano at a young age.

2. Musical Education: Joplin received formal music training from Julius Weiss, a German-born music teacher. This education helped him develop a strong foundation in classical music, which he later blended with African American musical traditions to create his unique style.

3. Maple Leaf Rag: Joplin's most famous composition, "Maple Leaf Rag," was published in 1899. It became a huge hit and is considered one of the most significant and enduring pieces in the history of American music. It also played a pivotal role in popularizing ragtime music.

4. Ragtime Pioneer: Joplin was a key figure in the ragtime music movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ragtime was characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies, and it had a major impact on the development of jazz and popular music.

5. Opera Composer: In addition to his ragtime compositions, Joplin aspired to compose a full-length opera. His most famous opera, "Treemonisha," was completed in 1911. It combined elements of opera, African American folk music, and classical music and addressed social issues like education and civil rights.

6. Legacy and Recognition: Although Joplin didn't achieve significant financial success during his lifetime, his music and influence lived on. In 1976, he was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to American music.

7. Tragic End: Scott Joplin's life took a tragic turn towards the end. He suffered from syphilis and spent his last years in a mental institution. He passed away on April 1, 1917, at the age of 49.

8. Renaissance of Interest: In the 1970s, there was a resurgence of interest in Joplin's music, thanks in part to the popular film "The Sting" (1973), which featured several of his compositions on its soundtrack. This led to a revival of ragtime music.

9. Joplin's Influence: Joplin's innovative approach to music laid the foundation for future jazz and swing styles. Musicians like Jelly Roll Morton and Duke Ellington acknowledged his influence on their work. His compositions continue to be celebrated and performed today.

10. Posthumous Honors: Besides the Pulitzer Prize, Joplin has received numerous posthumous honors, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and a U.S. postage stamp in his honor.

Scott Joplin's enduring legacy in American music is a testament to his talent and the cultural significance of ragtime music in the development of popular music genres.