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 scholar and teacher. You will have proficiency in History.

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

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

(T.3): You are press-ganged. Roll on Table 34

(T.34): The ship is becalmed for weeks. When the wind finally picks up, it blows you to the shore near a great temple. You decide to thank the gods by serving at the temple on Table 27.

(T.27): You impress the priests with your devotion. You will have training in Religion and Medicine. You are sent out to spread the word, roll on Table 8 to see where.

(T.8): A seaside city. Too bad you didn't avoid the press-gang. Roll on Table 34.

(T.34): Pirates attack the ship and you are captured and sold into slavery 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 evade your pursuers for now, but you know they are never going to be far behind and you must remain alert. You will have proficiency in Perception. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 10
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:
History
Religion
Medicine
Perception