Robert Cross Smith

Robert Cross Smith (1926-2011) was an American writer and martial artist recognized for his extensive work introducing Asian martial arts, particularly Chinese internal arts like tai chi, baguazhang, and xingyiquan, to a Western audience. Born in Iowa, Smith's early life included experiences in an orphanage, military service in the Marines, and higher education where he pursued history. His interest in martial arts, especially judo, began early and intensified during his time as an intelligence officer for the CIA, which included a significant posting to Taiwan from 1959 to 1962.

In Taiwan, Smith immersed himself in Chinese martial arts, studying with various masters and notably becoming a student of Professor Cheng Man-ch'ing, a renowned master of tai chi and other arts. This period was crucial for his development and understanding of these practices. Upon returning to the United States, Smith began teaching judo and later concentrated on tai chi, baguazhang, and xingyiquan, establishing a long-running free tai chi class in Bethesda, Maryland. His teaching career spanned decades, and he retired in 1988.

Smith's literary output was substantial, comprising numerous books and articles that detailed martial techniques, history, and personal anecdotes. He co-authored early English-language books on tai chi, baguazhang, and xingyiquan, playing a pivotal role in their introduction to Western readers. He also wrote under the pseudonym John F. Gilbey, often with a humorous or fictionalized approach. His writings are characterized by a blend of technical instruction, historical context, and personal reflection, often infused with humor.

Robert Cross Smith was a significant figure in the dissemination of Asian martial arts, such as judo, baguazhang, xingyiquan, and tai chi, within the United States following World War II. His prolific writing career, beginning in the 1950s, was instrumental in raising awareness and fostering interest in these disciplines among Westerners. Smith's articles appeared in numerous martial arts publications, and he also served on editorial boards, helping to shape the discourse around these practices. His work is noted for its engaging style, combining technical details with historical context, personal experiences, and a distinctive sense of humor, which made complex martial arts concepts accessible to a broader audience.

During his tenure as a CIA intelligence officer, Robert Cross Smith was stationed in Taiwan from 1959 to 1962. This period proved pivotal, as he dedicated himself to studying various Chinese martial arts directly with masters. Most notably, he became a student of Professor Cheng Man-ch'ing, a celebrated master of tai chi, calligraphy, poetry, painting, and Chinese medicine. Legend suggests it took Smith considerable persistence to be accepted as Cheng's first non-Chinese disciple. While awaiting Cheng's tutelage, Smith also trained with T.T. Liang. His close association with Cheng Man-ch'ing continued even after Cheng relocated to the United States, lasting until Cheng's death in 1975, significantly shaping Smith's understanding and later teachings.

Smith authored or co-authored fourteen books and over twenty articles, focusing particularly on the internal martial arts of China. He is credited with writing the first English-language books on baguazhang and xingyiquan, alongside early works on tai chi, including a collaboration with his teacher, Cheng Man-ch'ing. His memoir, "Martial Musings," reflects his anecdotal teaching style and humor. Smith also explored other genres, writing fiction and parody under the pseudonym John F. Gilbey. Beyond martial arts, he contributed reviews and opinion pieces to newspapers. His comprehensive writings served to bridge cultural divides, introducing profound Eastern philosophies and practices to a Western readership.

“PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE ....”

“Tai Chi is like swimming in air.”

“This is the Marine Corps school of T'ai Chi.”

“You may hate me now, but you’ll thank me later.”

“It takes at least five years of practicing T'ai Chi to realize you know nothing.”