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 an undertaker.

(T.102): One of your parents was an executioner.

(T.2): Two brothers.

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

(T.4): Being a merchant's assistant may not be that exciting, but it is lucrative. Add 10% to your starting gold! Then roll on Table 6.

(T.6): You impress the other merchants with your silver tongue. You will have proficiency in Persuasion. You are elected to mediate mercantile disputes. Proceed to Table 28.

(T.28): You make a convincing argument and win the respect of those who hear it. You will have proficiency in Persuasion. A noble comes to know of your skill and hires you on Table 33.

(T.33): You come to view the noble as a good friend. You have proficiency in Insight and Persuasion. The noble asks you, as a friend, for help on Table 18.

(T.18): Your friend didn't want your help. They actually just wanted to lure you to a party in your honor! That's the good news. Unfortunately, things get a bit out of hand on Table 23.

(T.23): You end up unconscious on the floor, but the tavern owner admires your style and keeps you out of trouble with the law. You still have to work off some of the damages though. While working, you overhear a conspiracy. When you report it, you are hired to infiltrate the conspirator's group. Roll on Table 29.

(T.29): You are a terrible spy! Your cover is blown practically immediately and you are locked up by those you were spying on in Table 21.

(T.21): You are tough, and the warden decides you might be fit for military service. Roll on Table 22.

(T.22): You are a recognized hero who rises through the ranks. You will have +15% starting gold and proficiency in Athletics. Also, regardless of your background, you always have the Feature: Military Rank from the soldier background. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 13
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:
10% More Starting Gold
Persuasion
Insight
15% More Starting Gold
Athletics
Feature: Military Rank (Soldier background)