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 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): Impersonating a noble or other famous individual.
Biological Parents:

    >>>> (T.101): One of your parents was a priest. You will have proficiency in Religion.

    >>>> (T.102): One of your parents was a farmer.
Adoptive Parents:

    >>>> (T.101): One of your parents was an undertaker.

    >>>> (T.102): If this is your 2nd (or higher) roll on this table, you were separated from your siblings as a child. Continue on to Table 2 to determine these siblings, re-rolling if you roll a 1, 2 or 20.

(T.2): Two stepsiblings, each with a different parent.

(T.3): You were apprenticed or sent to be trained. Roll on Table 4 to determine who by or what as.

(T.4): Being a merchant's assistant may not be that exciting, but it is lucrative. Add 10% to your starting gold! Then roll on Table 6.

(T.6): You impress the other merchants with your silver tongue. You will have proficiency in Persuasion. You are elected to mediate mercantile disputes. Proceed to Table 28.

(T.28): You make a convincing argument and win the respect of those who hear it. You will have proficiency in Persuasion. A noble comes to know of your skill and hires you 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: 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:
Intimidation
Religion
10% More Starting Gold
Persuasion
Insight
20% More Starting Gold