The background of the Red Terror is unknown. His true name was only revealed in “Marvel Mystery Handbook – 70th Anniversary Special” (2009).
He organized a criminal gang which was ruthless enough to cause massive loss of life. Their secret lair was a fortress made of solid steel. The Red Terror had several pet lions serve as a welcoming committee for annoying visitors. His most notable equipment was a rocket-powered zeppelin. It could fly at speeds comparable to those of the Top.
The Red Terror first gained the attention of the public when orchestrating a train wreck. Passengers and crew were either killed or severely injured. Leaving the Terror and his gang free to escape with the money transferred. However, the wreck was reported by a passerby. The incident became the top news item of the day. Causing the Human Top, who was getting bored, to investigate. He was able to track the Terror to his hideout and bypass every security measure.