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 noble. You will have +25% starting gold and proficiency in Insight.

(T.102): One of your parents was a lawyer. You will have proficiency in Persuasion.

(T.2): A bastard younger brother.

(T.3): Who doesn't want to run away and join the circus? Clearly not you, as that's just what you did. Roll on Table 30.

[d20 = 9]
(T.30): You become part of the freak show. It doesn't really matter if you're really a freak or not, as long as you can scare people. Roll a d20. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 5
Your age is CHILDHOOD
Children are physically smaller than adults, and are still learning much about the world. Their smaller frames make them more agile and more endearing, and sometimes they have curious views which can make them seem insightful.
+1 DEX, +1, WIS, +1 CHA, -1 STR, -1 CON, -1 INT

Proficiencies:
25% More Starting Gold
Insight
Persuasion