Douglas Smith is an award-winning historian and translator, known for his extensive work on Russian history. With a profound interest in German and Russian, Smith pursued his studies at the University of Vermont, culminating in a doctorate in history from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Throughout his illustrious career spanning more than two decades, Smith has frequently visited Russia. In the 1980s, he played an integral role as a Russian-speaking guide for the U.S. State Department's exhibition "Information USA," which was showcased across the Soviet Union. His expertise in Soviet affairs led him to a position at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in Munich, Germany, where he specialized in Russian nationalism and also served as an interpreter for the late President Ronald Reagan.

As an educator, Smith has taught and delivered lectures extensively within the United States, across Britain, and other parts of Europe. His contributions to historical discourse have not only been confined to the classroom; Smith has also made appearances in documentaries produced by A&E and National Geographic.

His literary accomplishments include four books on Russia, further establishing his reputation as an authoritative voice in the field of Russian studies.