This tool is based on the work of user Arachobia on RPG Crossing with his permission. He had taken a list of tables from Dragon magazine #422 in an article called "Building Character" by Matt Sernett and updated them for 5th edition. I've turned them into an automatic tool for generating a characters background.

Instructions: Refresh the page to generate a new background story. As always, you can use it however you like and fill in your own details. Your age and acquired proficiencies are listed at the bottom and are based on the results you got. Try to pick a Race/Class/Background combo that fulfills all the proficiencies. Your age may also result in ability score modifiers that can be applied after building your character.

...or ignore everything and do whatever you want. Whatever.
Background Generator

(T.101): One of your parents was a lawyer. You will have proficiency in Persuasion.

(T.102): One of your parents was a noble. You will have +25% starting gold and proficiency in Insight.

(T.2): An identical twin.

(T.3): You were apprenticed or sent to be trained. Roll on Table 4 to determine who by or what as.

(T.4): What could be more honorable and glorious than enlisting as a soldier? Start your service at Table 22.

(T.22): Your unit is surrounded and only you escape the massacre by fleeing into the wilderness on Table 24.

(T.24): You find some sort of road, trail or other route to follow to Table 8.

(T.8): A tavern on a trade route. Either its prone to brawls, or you just came at the wrong time. Put your dukes up at Table 23.

(T.23): You save the tavern owner's life and send the brawling patrons fleeing for their lives. The owner gratefully rewards you with partial ownership of the tavern. You will have +10% starting gold and proficiency in Athletics. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 9
Your age is ADULT
Adults are at the most equalized stage of development. From here their physical body will begin to weaken while their minds and personalities benefit from experience.
Adults have no modifiers to their attributes.

Proficiencies:
Persuasion
25% More Starting Gold
Insight
10% More Starting Gold
Athletics