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 soldier.

(T.2): You're the bastard! You have two brothers and two sisters.

(T.3): Your family is ruined and blacklisted by the machinations of a rival. You have to take to a life of crime to survive, or become a political criminal due to the circumstances. Roll on Table 15 to see what your crime was. Then continue with a roll on Table 26.

    >>>> (T.15): Smuggling.

(T.26): The group sets you up and frames you for a crime. Roll on Table 15 to see which one, then go to jail on Table 21.

    >>>> (T.15): Black Market Activity.

(T.21): You serve out your term in prison until you are freed. You start with 10% less starting gold. Roll on Table 31 with a -5 modifier to the roll to see the effects of this imprisonment. Then seek out a friend or family after your release on Table 11.

    >>>> (T.31): You barely make it. The experience leaves its scars, both physical and mental, but you find ways to compensate.

(T.11): In your search, you turn up the activities of a villain. Roll on Table 5 to determine which villain. Then try escape their wrath on Table 19.

    >>>> (T.5): A powerful merchant.

(T.19): You evade your pursuers for now, but you know they are never going to be far behind and you must remain alert. You will have proficiency in Perception. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 12
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
10% Less Starting Gold
Perception