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 diplomat. You will have proficiency in Persuasion.

(T.2): An older sister and a stepbrother.

(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): Impersonating a noble or other famous individual.

(T.26): You do some minor jobs for the group, but the authorities know it’s you. They can't prove it, so they decide to just make you 'disappear' and dump you in the wilds. Roll on Table 24 to see how you fare.

(T.24): You run into a dwarf surveying the area for places to mine. They lead you back to civilization, then asks you for a favor on Table 18.

(T.18): Your friend didn't want your help. They actually just wanted to lure you to a party in your honor! That's the good news. Unfortunately, things get a bit out of hand on Table 23.

(T.23): You save the tavern owner's life and send the brawling patrons fleeing for their lives. The owner gratefully rewards you with partial ownership of the tavern. You will have +10% starting gold and proficiency in Athletics. Your life of adventure begins.


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
10% More Starting Gold
Athletics