No significant societal gains, either technological, sociological or artistic are being made, or have been made in recent memory. Your culture has remained essentially as it is for generations. Rulers tend to emphasise maintaining the status quo.
Destitute: These people are considered the dregs of society. They own no property, and may have no fixed home. Some perform no real work and are often unemployable. Others are in bond to a master and live at his whim.
Guardian(s): This person or creature become the character's guardian(s). This is due to the parents being absent or the character was orphaned at a young age.
Pickpocket: During your youth your family fell on hard times forcing you to turn to petty theft and other criminal activities involving you with criminal organisations.
During your early adulthood you saved someone's life. This person becomes your companion. (work with your DM to determine details) Roll 1d10 on a 9-10 your companion falls in love with you.