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Scott Joplin was a renowned American composer and pianist known for his significant contributions to the development of ragtime music. Here are some interesting facts about Scott Joplin, often referred to as "The King of Ragtime":

1. Birthplace and Date: Scott Joplin was born in Texarkana, Texas, around November 24, 1868, although the exact date is uncertain. He grew up in a musical family, and his father played the violin.

2. Musical Prodigy: Joplin displayed his musical talent at a young age. He received formal music training and began playing the piano by the age of seven. His early exposure to music and his talent laid the foundation for his future success.

3. Ragtime Innovator: Scott Joplin is credited with popularizing and refining ragtime music. Ragtime is characterized by its syncopated rhythms, and Joplin's compositions, such as "The Maple Leaf Rag" and "The Entertainer," became iconic examples of the genre.

4. "The Maple Leaf Rag": Joplin's composition "The Maple Leaf Rag," published in 1899, became one of the most famous and enduring ragtime pieces. It sold over one million copies of sheet music during his lifetime and helped establish him as a leading figure in ragtime music.

5. Opera Ambitions: In addition to his ragtime compositions, Joplin had ambitions to compose operas. His most notable opera, "Treemonisha," was written in the early 1910s but was not widely recognized during his lifetime. It gained appreciation and recognition in the decades following his death.

6. Scott Joplin's School of Music: In the later part of his life, Joplin opened a music school in Sedalia, Missouri, where he aimed to teach and promote ragtime music. His school, however, faced financial difficulties and eventually closed.

7. Pulitzer Prize: In 1976, long after his death, Scott Joplin received a posthumous Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to American music. This recognition helped cement his legacy as an important American composer.

8. Legacy and Influence: Scott Joplin's work significantly influenced the development of jazz and popular music in the 20th century. His compositions have been covered by countless artists and have appeared in numerous films and television shows, keeping his music alive in the public consciousness.

9. Final Years and Death: Sadly, Joplin's later years were marked by financial struggles and health issues. He suffered from syphilis, which eventually led to his mental deterioration. He died in a mental institution in New York City on April 1, 1917, at the age of 48.

10. Recognition on a U.S. Postal Stamp: In 1983, the United States Postal Service honored Scott Joplin by featuring him on a postage stamp as part of their Black Heritage series, recognizing his significant contributions to American music.

Scott Joplin's impact on American music cannot be overstated, and his compositions continue to be celebrated and enjoyed to this day. He remains a key figure in the history of ragtime and early American music.