Which African American composer is recognized as the best-known creator of ragtime music?

Scott Joplin is recognized as the best-known creator of ragtime music due to his significant contributions to the genre and his role in popularizing ragtime during the early 20th century. Joplin's compositions, particularly "Maple Leaf Rag" and "The Entertainer," exemplify the distinctive syncopated rhythms and melodic style characteristic of ragtime. His work not only defined the genre but also laid the groundwork for future developments in American music, influencing jazz and other forms. Joplin's dedication to ragtime music, along with his efforts to elevate it to a respected art form, solidifies his place as a pivotal figure in the history of popular music.