First, you must become a writer -- someone with uncommon skills in spelling, grammar, punctuation, etc. Many people think they would like to do something, but most become discouraged once they find out what it takes. If you REALLY want to be a freelance writer, then your spelling, grammar and punctuation must be absolutely PERFECT!
I've been a freelance writer many years, so I'll give you some advice.
Buy a copy of "The Writer's Market" at any book store, and subscribe to their monthly magazine. That particular book is VITAL for anyone aspiring to be a freelance writer; it's contents will amaze you. For a
good start, you'll need a tutor. I highly recommend taking courses in writing at some area school or correspondence studies from a very reputable institution. Check out the Long Ridge Writers Group......
they have excellent correspondence courses, superb instructors and reasonable rates. Furthermore, they offer a refund if you later think they were not helpful.
Now the bad news. Your interest in history is appreciated, but it's a stale market for freelance writers, especially new ones. Products are sold best as "new" or "improved" items. Unless you try to give some new slant or insight on any aspect of history, you're up against the toughest of market ideas. History? Most people don't care...there are magazines and journals on history, but not many. And the pay for a
history article is quite low in comparison with other article types. If you're adamant about being a history writer, please note that you'll be competing with seasoned writers who are already established. OK?
BUT....if you can offer something different, go for it! ....I did once.
Who was the first person to fly non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean?
Most people would say Charles Lindbergh. Naahh! He was the first to fly SOLO across the Atlantic. More than 70 people flew across that ocean before Lindbergh, and several others died while tryng to do it.
So I once wrote an article with that uncommon fact as my "slant" or different approach, and it appeared in newspapers nationwide. See?
You MUST have something different to offer. That's the key.
Now I write articles on many subjects for several different types of publications -- corporate newsletters, magazines, newspapers, etc.
Being a freelance writer is fun and profitable; it's very rewarding.....
But take it one step at a time. Buy that book I mentioned above ---
be sure your language skills are perfect, learn the ropes, decide what you want to write.....and begin!
Good luck!
