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 soldier.

(T.102): One of your parents was a scholar and teacher. You will have proficiency in History.

(T.2): Only child.

(T.3): Your parents need to give a noble a gift: you! Roll on Table 33

(T.33): You and one of the noble's children elope. Go to Table 12 to see what becomes of your lover.

Choose one...
(T.12): The person was a family relation all along. You can begin adventuring with this knowledge.
(T.12): The person was a family relation all along. You can re-roll on this table again to see what further happens to them.

(T.112): The person is kidnapped by a villain. Roll on Table 5 to see what kind of villain. They demand a magical or rare item in exchange. Search for it on Table 11.

    >>>> (T.5): The leader of a criminal organization.

(T.11): In your search, you turn up the activities of a villain. Roll on Table 5 to determine which villain. Then try escape their wrath on Table 19.

    >>>> (T.5): A noble.

(T.19): You are captured and imprisoned on Table 21.

(T.21): You either voluntarily join a prison gang or are coerced into doing so. Their contacts get you free, but now you owe them a favor on Table 26.

(T.26): Your skill are impressive, and soon the guild not only makes you a member but starts giving you all the best jobs. You will have proficiency in Sleight of Hand and Stealth. A rival in the group takes notice, and you are forced to strike at them before they strike at you on Table 9.

(T.9): You bit off more than you can chew; your enemy is far too powerful for you to take on. Resort to trying to talk your way out of trouble on Table 28.

(T.28): You are truly a great orator. You impress all involved, and they view you as an honored guest and bestow you with gifts. You will have +10% starting gold and proficiency in Persuasion and Insight. Your life of adventure begins.


Total Rolls: 15
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
Sleight of Hand
Stealth
10% More Starting Gold
Persuasion
Insight