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Scott Joplin was a highly influential African American composer and pianist, often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." Here are some interesting facts about him and his famous composition, "Maple Leaf Rag":

1. Composer and Pianist: Scott Joplin was born in 1868 in Texas and became one of the most prominent composers of ragtime music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

2. "Maple Leaf Rag": Joplin composed "Maple Leaf Rag" in 1899. It is one of his most famous and enduring works, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies.

3. Syncopation: "Maple Leaf Rag" is known for its distinctive syncopated rhythms. Syncopation involves placing emphasis on normally unaccented beats or using unexpected rhythmic patterns, giving the music a lively and energetic feel.

4. Popularity: The "Maple Leaf Rag" was a massive hit and played a crucial role in popularizing ragtime music. It became a significant part of the ragtime craze that swept the United States during the early 20th century.

5. Sheet Music Sales: Joplin's "Maple Leaf Rag" sold over a million copies of sheet music, making it one of the best-selling musical compositions of its time.

6. Recognition: Although Joplin did not achieve widespread recognition during his lifetime, his contributions to music were later acknowledged, and he posthumously received a Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for his contributions to American music.

7. Legacy: Scott Joplin's legacy extends beyond "Maple Leaf Rag." He is often credited with elevating ragtime from a regional genre to a national sensation, influencing later forms of jazz, and contributing to the development of American popular music.

"Maple Leaf Rag" remains a classic and is often studied and performed by musicians, showcasing Joplin's significant impact on the development of American music.