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Scott Joplin was a prominent American composer and pianist, known as the "King of Ragtime." He composed numerous pieces during his lifetime, but "Maple Leaf Rag" is one of his most famous compositions. Here are some interesting facts about Scott Joplin and "Maple Leaf Rag":

1. Early Life: Scott Joplin was born around November 24, 1868, in Texarkana, Texas, or perhaps Linden, Texas. The exact date and place of his birth remain uncertain.

2. Musical Prodigy: Joplin displayed a talent for music at an early age and received formal music training. He played various instruments, including the piano, cornet, and guitar.

3. Maple Leaf Rag: "Maple Leaf Rag" was composed in 1899 and published in 1899 by Joplin's own publishing company, Stark & Son. It became the most famous and enduring ragtime composition.

4. Maple Leaf Rag's Influence: This composition played a pivotal role in popularizing ragtime music, a genre characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies. It became a symbol of the ragtime era.

5. Sheet Music Sales: "Maple Leaf Rag" sold over one million copies of sheet music within the first few years of its release, making Joplin the first musician to earn a substantial income from sheet music sales.

6. Ragtime King: Joplin's title, the "King of Ragtime," reflects his immense influence on the genre. He composed numerous other ragtime pieces, including "The Entertainer" and "Solace."

7. Ragtime Opera: In addition to instrumental pieces, Joplin composed an opera titled "Treemonisha," which was one of the first operas by an African American composer. It was not widely recognized during his lifetime but gained recognition in later years.

8. Recognition and Legacy: Scott Joplin's contributions to American music were not fully appreciated during his lifetime, but he is now regarded as one of the most important composers in the history of American music. In 1976, he was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize for his contribution to music.

9. Film and Television: "Maple Leaf Rag" has been featured in numerous films and television shows over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity. It is often used to evoke the spirit of the early 20th century.

10. Ragtime Revival: The 1970s saw a revival of interest in ragtime music, thanks in part to the film "The Sting," which prominently featured Joplin's music, including "The Entertainer."

"Maple Leaf Rag" remains an iconic piece of American music history, and Scott Joplin's legacy endures through his contributions to ragtime and his influence on subsequent generations of musicians.