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): One of your parents was a craftsperson or skill artist.

(T.2): A bastard younger brother.

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

(T.4): You need some of that old time religion. Follow the call to 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 forest with elven guardians. They'll give you a chance to explain your trespass on Table 28.

(T.28): All you manage to do is anger one party to the point it wants to hunt you down. Roll on Table 19 to try escape their wrath.

(T.19): You spy your pursuers long before they see you, and cunningly arrange for them to run into some of their own enemies. They won't be bothering you again. You gain a reputation for sharp eyes and a sharp wit: you will begin with proficiency in Perception and Deception. 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:
Religion
Medicine
Perception
Deception