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 great hero.

(T.102): If this is your 2nd (or higher) roll on this table, you either were raised by one parent or only one parent worked AND you have four younger siblings (you are the oldest). Proceed to Table 3.

(T.3): Who needs an excuse to leave? You just wanted to see the world! Begin your journey on Table 8

(T.8): You walk into the middle of a slaver's camp, making their job very easy. Roll on Table 16.

(T.16): You revolt, and lead your fellow slaves in an escape attempt. See what fate has in store for you on Table 19.

(T.19): You manage to shake your pursuers who appear to give up, for now. You will have proficiency in Stealth. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 6
Your age is TEENAGER
Teenagers are dexterious and hardy, and often are cocky enough to be quite assertive and convincing. Unfortunately, this does not translate into 'real' wisdom or intelligence, and a teenagers body still has some growth to do before they'll be at peak strength.
+1 CHA, +1 DEX, +1 CON, -1 INT, -1 WIS, -1 STR

Proficiencies:
Stealth