Your people are living within the ruins of their former greatness, unable to understand let alone duplicate the feats of their forbearers. Members of your culture are often superstitious, even worshipping past technology or their former achievements.
Poor: very low income. compared to many. He usually does not or cannot own property. His home is usually of lesser quality, sometimes due to uncaring landlords who may also be the Poor person's employer.
Rebel: During your youth you ran away from your home for a time. (Work with your DM to determine what happened in your time away) Did you return or have you travelled the lands since leaving as a child?
Rebellion: As an adolescent you joined a rebellion against the local ruler, if successful you are outlawed, if it failed you escape, with only friends and family knowing your involvement. (Work with your DM to detirmine the details)