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 healer. You will have proficiency in Medicine.

(T.2): Only child.

(T.3): You left to search for a missing or distant sibling. If you thought you were an only child, turns out you were wrong and you learn of a half-sibling to seek out. Roll on Table 11.

(T.11): You find what you are looking for. You will have proficiency in Investigation. Roll on the associated table depending on what you were looking for: Person - Table 12.

(T.12): The person needs your help on Table 18.

(T.18): Your friend needs you to convince someone to allow them to wed their beloved. Roll on Table 28 to see if you can do so.

(T.28): You manage to eke out some success, but one of the conditions is that you, personally, are taken away from one of the angered parties. You are escorted to Table 8.

(T.8): A noble's home. Keep calm and carry on to Table 33.

(T.33): The noble throws a masquerade. You initially are the life of the party with your uproarious behavior, but once the masks are off and you continue on, your behavior is viewed as uncouth. With their honor insulted, the noble sends you packing to Table 8.

(T.8): A forest with elven guardians. They'll give you a chance to explain your trespass on Table 28.

(T.28): You are so bad at trying to negotiate that you actually may have started a war. At any rate, you find you are pressed into service on Table 22.

(T.22): You performed well during your service, but mostly become known for the allied lives you saved. You will have proficiency in Medicine. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 13
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:
Medicine
Investigation