Smith, Donald Alexander (1820–1914)

Scottish-born Canadian politician. He was a member of Parliament for Selkirk in the Dominion House of Commons 1871–72, 1874, and 1878, and for Montréal West 1877–96. He was instrumental in the building of the Canadian Pacific railway.

Smith was born in Morayshire, and emigated to Canada. He joined the Hudson's Bay Company in 1838. In 1869 he was governor of the company's territories, and in 1871 became chief commissioner of the North-West. Smith was special commissioner during the rebellion led by Louis Riel in the Red River settlements, Manitoba. He was a member of the Executive Council for the North-West Territories. From 1896 to 1914 he was Canadian high commissioner in Britain.