As he was born in the 19th Century, Hank has an abundance of unheard of technology at his fingertips. This of course allows him to improve on civilization as it was. Hank is also a product of democratic society.....
Unfortunately, Hank's ability to create gunpowder, trains, and telephones results in a bit of conceit. He believes himself to be superior, but worst of all uses his knowledge to take advantage of the people around him. Thus, the civilization he helps to improve..... he also pollutes by stealing its innocence in his greed for glory. He is poison.