How did Scott Joplin feel living in the US as a Negro?

Scott Joplin, as an African American musician in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, likely faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination and segregation in the United States. Despite his success as a composer and the popularity of ragtime music, Joplin experienced the limitations imposed by a racially divided society. His work often sought to elevate African American music within the broader cultural landscape, reflecting both pride in his heritage and the struggles of his community. Overall, his life and music were shaped by the complexities of navigating a racially charged environment.