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): If this is your 1st roll on this table, your family was poor. You will have 25% less starting gold. Continue on to Table 2.

(T.2): Two sisters.

(T.3): Your family is ensorcelled. A wizard offers to help remove the spell, but only if you help them out in exchange. Roll on Table 10.

(T.10): You prove your arcane abilities, and the wizard happily sends you off to learn more practically in the wider world. You will have proficiency in Arcana and a potion of healing (strength of the healing potion will depend on starting level). Here your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 4
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% Less Starting Gold
Potion of Healing
Arcana