Erich Maria Remarque was a German novelist best known for his landmark novel All Quiet on the Western Front (1928). Born as Erich Paul Remark on 22 June 1898, he later adopted the surname Remarque to honor his French ancestry. His work was deeply influenced by his experiences during World War I, where he served on the Western Front and was wounded.

The novel All Quiet on the Western Front is renowned for its stark depiction of the German military experience during the war and its strong anti-war messages. It became an international bestseller, defining a new genre of veterans' literature and inspiring multiple film adaptations. Despite its success, the book and Remarque's other works were condemned by the Nazi regime for their anti-war stance.

In response to the political climate, Remarque moved to Switzerland and later to the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen. Over his career, he wrote several other novels addressing war and its impacts. He passed away on 25 September 1970.