The "King of Ragtime" in Black history refers to Scott Joplin, a highly influential African American composer and pianist who is often credited with popularizing ragtime music. Born in Texas in 1868, Joplin's compositions, including the famous "Maple Leaf Rag" and "The Entertainer," helped bring ragtime to mainstream audiences in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Joplin's intricate and syncopated compositions melded elements of classical music with African American musical traditions, creating a new and distinctive sound that came to define the ragtime genre. His work laid the foundation for later forms of American music, such as jazz and blues, and he is considered a pioneer in the development of popular music in the United States.

Despite facing racial discrimination during his lifetime, Joplin's music has endured and continues to be celebrated for its artistic merit and cultural significance. He is remembered as a key figure in the history of American music, and his contributions to the ragtime genre have left a lasting impact on the music world.