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 diplomat. You will have proficiency in Persuasion.

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

(T.2): A bastard younger brother.

(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): Body-snatching (grave-robbing).

(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): Rabble-Rousing/Rebellion.

(T.21): You are scheduled for execution, but at the last moment a noble decides to intervene and buy your freedom if you serve them. Roll on Table 33.

(T.33): The noble becomes so fond of you that he promises your hand in marriage to the scion of the house. You will have proficiency in Insight and +20% starting gold. Your life of adventure begins (your choice if you are married yet).


Total Rolls: 9
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
Medicine
Insight
20% More Starting Gold