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Scott Joplin was a highly influential American composer and pianist known for his contributions to ragtime music. Here are some interesting facts about him:

1. Pioneer of Ragtime: Scott Joplin is often referred to as the "King of Ragtime." Ragtime was a popular music style in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and lively melodies.

2. "Maple Leaf Rag": Joplin's most famous composition is the "Maple Leaf Rag," published in 1899. It became a massive hit and sold over one million copies of sheet music during his lifetime. It remains one of the most recognizable pieces of ragtime music.

3. Composer and Educator: In addition to being a performer, Joplin was also a composer and teacher. He believed in the artistic value of ragtime and sought to elevate it as a serious genre. He even wrote a famous essay titled "The School of Ragtime" to explain its principles.

4. Classical Aspirations: Joplin had aspirations to bridge the gap between popular and classical music. He composed an opera called "Treemonisha," which he hoped would be his magnum opus. Although it wasn't widely recognized during his lifetime, it is now regarded as a significant work.

5. St. Louis Connection: Joplin spent a significant part of his career in St. Louis, Missouri. He performed in clubs and composed many of his famous works there. The city played a crucial role in the development and popularization of ragtime music.

6. Publishing House: He founded the "Scott Joplin Music Company" in 1907 to publish his compositions. This allowed him to retain more control over his work and earn royalties, which was relatively uncommon for African American composers at the time.

7. Musical Legacy: Scott Joplin's contributions to American music are significant. His compositions laid the foundation for jazz and had a lasting impact on the development of popular music in the 20th century.

8. Posthumous Recognition: Although Joplin died in 1917, his music experienced a resurgence in popularity during the 1970s when the film "The Sting" featured several of his compositions, including "The Entertainer." This led to renewed interest in ragtime music and Joplin's legacy.

9. Honors and Awards: In 1976, Joplin was posthumously awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his contribution to American music. He was the first African American to receive this honor.

10. Scott Joplin House State Historic Site: The Scott Joplin House in St. Louis, Missouri, where he lived for a period, is now a historic site and museum dedicated to preserving his legacy.

Scott Joplin's impact on American music is immeasurable, and his work continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by music enthusiasts around the world.