Over the Top

First Person Accounts

Over the Top (1917) thrust author Arthur Guy Empey into the spotlight.  He left the U.S. in 1915, frustrated at its neutrality in the conflict, and enlisted with the British army.  He was discharged after being wounded in action at the commencement of the Battle of the Somme.

Returning to the U.S. in 1917, Empey's account became a publishing sensation; it was turned into a film in 1918, written by and starring Empey.  After the success of both vehicles, he toured widely throughout the U.S. giving public performances and readings to rally the American people to the nation's entry into the conflict.

Hundreds of firsthand accounts appeared during and following the war.

Arthur Guy Empey