David Rainbow

David Rainbow is an Associate Professor of History at Colorado Christian University, affiliated with the College of Undergraduate Studies and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. He previously served as an Associate Professor of History in the Honors College at the University of Houston, bringing extensive experience in teaching and research on modern Europe and Russia. He is also actively involved in the Augustine Honors Program at CCU.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in History, New York University
• M.A. in History, Drew University
• B.A. in History, Fresno Pacific University
• Additional studies at several Russian universities

Dr. Rainbow specializes in the history of the Russian Empire and early Soviet Union (1850–1930), with research interests encompassing the Russian Revolution, Civil War, race in Russia and the USSR, and Siberian regionalism. His work is grounded in extensive archival research conducted in both Russia and the United States, reflecting a deep engagement with primary sources and transnational historical narratives. He teaches courses on European, Russian, and American history, as well as Western Civilization and Great Books from antiquity to the 20th century.

His scholarly work has been supported by competitive fellowships and grants from prominent institutions, including Columbia University’s Harriman Institute (postdoctoral fellowship), the Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia, Fulbright, and the U.S. Department of State. These awards underscore the national recognition of his research contributions.

Teaching and Institutional Mission:

• Recipient of the University Provost's Teaching Excellence Award
• Committed to integrating faith and learning within a Christian liberal arts framework
• Teaches in CCU’s Augustine Honors Program, emphasizing truth, beauty, and goodness in education

Dr. Rainbow’s personal journey includes living in St. Petersburg, Siberia, and Germany, working on a cattle ranch in North Dakota, and serving as an engineer aboard a merchant ship sailing the Pacific Rim—experiences that enrich his interdisciplinary and global perspective in the classroom.