Final answer:
The song "Dixie" was written by Daniel Decatur Emmett. It is important to explore the broader context of American music, with influential figures like Scott Joplin contributing significantly to the musical landscape.
Step-by-step explanation:
The well-known minstrel song "Dixie" was written by Daniel Decatur Emmett. While "Dixie" is often associated with the Confederate South, it was actually composed by a northerner.
It's important to recognize the broader context in which African American musical traditions developed. Influential figures like Scott Joplin, a pioneering African American composer, greatly influenced the creation of ragtime music, a predecessor to jazz and modern popular music. Yet, the name of Daniel Decatur Emmett stands separate in musical history as the writer of "Dixie." Understanding the music of the time gives us a glimpse into the cultural landscape of America during the 19th century.