A History of Marvel Comics: Part 14: Kraven the Hunter

Sergei Kravinov was the son of Nikolai and Anna. He had a half-brother named Dmitri, who Sergei tormented. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the Kravinovs were forced to flee to the US and UK, where there name was anglicized to 'Kravinoff'. Sergei left America to find adventure, traveling the world as a stowaway on cargo ships. Living in Africa, Sergei developed a talent to hunt. As an adult, he became the wealthy 'Kraven the Hunter'. Kraven stole a witch doctor's formula, which he used to enhance his strength and speed. Through these potions, which he shared with his half-brother 'the Chameleon', Kraven maintained his youth for many decades. Through the years, Kraven sired several children. These were Vladimir, Alyosha, and Nedrocci. Chameleon and Kraven both attempted to defeat the fledgling super hero Spider Man, but were defeated and deported. They tried to escape but were stopped by the Avengers. Doctor Octopus offered Kraven a chance of revenge by joining the original Sinister Six along with the Vulture, Electro, Mysterio, and Sandman.