Who Is Hawkeye? Origin, Powers and Key Facts

Hawkeye is a Marvel comic book character, the alter ego of Clinton Francis Barton, with over 4,978 comic issue appearances. Trained by criminals and inspired by heroes, Clint Barton has grown from a troubled youth into one of the greatest heroes on Earth. The world knows him best as Hawkeye: Earth's Mightiest Marksman. A member of the Avengers for many years, he has left the team on occasion because of team friction. But he always returns, ready to face any threat.

Who is Hawkeye?

Origin The Master Archer Clint Barton was born into an abusive family. He and his older brother Barney were the target of an abuse from their alcoholic father (Harold) and their mother (Edith) who didn't care. Tragedy, or perhaps poetic justice, struck when both parents died in a car accident caused by Harold's excessive drinking. Soon after the accident, Clint and Barney were put into an orphanage. The two escaped, dreaming of a better life. While on the run, the two fell in the company of a traveling circus. Needing food and shelter, Clint and Barney decided to do odd jobs for the performers. Two performers, Swordsman and Trickshot, saw potential in Clint and took him under their wing.

Key facts

Hawkeye is of human origin and first appeared in "Hawkeye, The Marksman". The character is published by Marvel. With 4,978 recorded issue appearances, Hawkeye ranks among the most featured characters in comics.