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 healer. You will have proficiency in Medicine.

(T.102): One of your parents was a criminal. Roll on Table 15 to determine what crime(s) they committed. Regardless of what they did, you will have proficiency in Intimidation.

    >>>> (T.15): Forgery.

(T.2): You are the youngest of a 7 sibling family.

(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 = 13]
(T.30): A contortionist. Roll a d20. On a 12+, you succeed. You will have training in Acrobatics. You catch the attention of a spymaster who has need of someone with your infiltration skills on Table 29.

(T.29): On the mission, you run afoul of a rival spy. You decide to act against them before they act against you on Table 9.

(T.9): Your quest is put on hold as you become embroiled in other events. Roll on Table 17.

(T.17): A violent storm forces you to seek shelter from a location on Table 8.

(T.8): A travelling circus. You can travel with them, but only if you can join the act on Table 30.

[d20 = 16]
(T.30): They tried to stop you, but you ignored the warnings and became a mime. Roll a d20. On a 12+ you manage to make a success of it. You have proficiency in Performance, and the circus keeps you on for another season. Roll on this table again.

[d20 = 17]
(T.30): A trick rider. Roll a d20. On a 12+, you prove your abilities as a rider. You will be proficient in Animal Handling, and 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:
Medicine
Intimidation
Acrobatics
Performance
Animal Handling