-Michael is originally from a much older time period than 2166. I've decided to go with 1860's England. That he lived on the streets and was a cutpurse is canon. At one point he also severely injured someone who came after him in an effort to survive; he'd been cornered and his only recourse was to lash out so he could run. He doesn't know if the man lived or died, nor has he ever felt the desire to find out.

-Because he was on the streets at such a young age, academically Michael was behind when he first was recruited to the Time Masters. He couldn't read or write, and was subjected to some bullying because of it. In order to cover up this insecurity, Michael would act out. It wasn't until Mary Xavier sat him down and told him she knew he was better than he acted that he confessed the real truth: he was afraid if he failed, he'd be returned to the streets.

She convinced him that it wouldn't be the case--more to the point, she wouldn't let that be the case. She believed he'd been brought to her for a reason, but he had to be the one to find it. After that, Michael dedicated himself to his studies, and excelled at them. Moreover, he actually learned that he could make friends with the other children, rather than seeing them as competition for food and shelter.

-Michael did not choose the name Rip Hunter--but secretly, he thought it was super cool.