How to Find Freelance History Writing Jobs

If you’re passionate about the past and have a talent for storytelling, freelance history writing can be a great way to make money. Whether you’re interested in academic research, museum curation, or writing historical blog posts and articles, we’ve got you covered.

This post will:

• Tell you what history writing is
• Explain what a history writer does
• Outline five ways you can find freelance history writing jobs

In the end, we’ll even provide you with an opportunity to develop your writing skills and gain some content writing experience. Keep reading to find out how to turn your passion for the past into a paycheck.

What Is History Writing?

History is generally considered to be any type of narrative about humanity’s past. Studying history can show us how society, politics, education, culture, etc., has changed over time.

Fortunately for writers, the formats and platforms for history writing are just as varied as the subject matter itself. Writers in this field might produce educational content, create articles for historical magazines, or even draft social media posts that simplify historical topics for general audiences.

Types of History Writing

Some popular types of history writing include:

• Articles and Blogs: Many platforms and publications are on the lookout for well-researched historical content. For example, History of Yesterday accepts submissions from writers of all experience levels. The publication aims to make history interesting for an online audience and teach important lessons.
• Educational Materials: History writers can find opportunities to develop materials for teachers, contribute to textbooks, or create content for online courses. These roles require a deep understanding of historical events and the ability to present information in an informative, engaging manner. Here is a list of the best-ranked history programs in the USA that would have needed history writers to help create their curriculums.
• Books: History is not just for textbooks. Biographies, autobiographies, and works of historical nonfiction often reach the top of best-selling book lists. For example, A Mind Spread Out on the Ground is a book about trauma, oppression, and racism in North America by award-winning Haudenosaunee writer Alicia Elliott.
• Material for Museums and Heritage Sites: Museums and historical sites need writers to craft detailed descriptions for exhibits, write newsletters, produce online guides, write educational materials, and more. For example, The National Museum of American History has a monthly newsletter featuring museum news, research updates, and online exhibitions.
• Material for Historical Societies: Lots of historical societies produce newsletters, magazines, and research publications. The Royal Historical Society, for instance, has members engaged in publishing history-related material.
• Social Media Content: Heritage organizations often require short-form content to engage the public via social platforms. The Smithsonian Institution’s Instagram account, for example, has over a million followers and regularly features brief educational videos that highlight key exhibits, artifacts, and museum activities.
• Genealogy reports: Some writers also specialize in producing genealogy reports or tracing family histories, which requires a unique set of research skills and the ability to weave individual stories into broader historical contexts. This short article on the House of Windsor reveals that the family name has, surprisingly, only been in use since 1917.

What Does a History Writer Do?

History writers gather information about past events. They then organize, study, interpret, and present this information. A proficient history writer may need to juggle several tasks, depending on the nature of the project.

Here are three main tasks most history writers will have to perform:

1. Conduct research: One of the most crucial aspects of history writing is thorough research. Writers spend significant time examining archives, reviewing and cross-referencing multiple sources, and searching databases to gather relevant information on historical topics. They might visit libraries or museums, interview subject experts, or even travel to historical sites to collect information.
2. Make information accessible: A key skill is simplifying complex historical events or figures to make history accessible and interesting to a broad audience. This often involves implementing storytelling techniques, using visuals such as timelines or infographics, and drawing parallels to current events or social issues. 
3. Write and Edit: History writers also need to know how to fact-check and proofread and edit their work to produce accurate written content. In addition, they must be able to adapt their tone and voice to suit different audiences and platforms. 

5 Ways to Find Freelance History Writing Jobs

Now that you know exactly what history writing entails, here are some practical ways to find freelance opportunities in this field:

1. Pitch to History-Focused Magazines

Many niche magazines accept freelance submissions on historical topics. Publications like Today I Found Out, History Today, and the aforementioned History of Yesterday are always on the lookout for fresh perspectives on historical events.

To get published:

• Research the magazine’s style and focus.
• Develop a compelling pitch or complete article that aligns with their content.
• Follow their submission guidelines carefully.
• Don’t be discouraged by rejections – keep refining your approach and trying new publications.

2. Join Historical Associations and Societies

Organizations like the American Historical Association are excellent resources for freelance historians. They provide job boards with freelance opportunities, resources and training to enhance your skills, and networking events to connect with like-minded writers and potential clients.

Joining these associations can help you connect with employers seeking freelance writers. It’s also a great way to stay updated on trends and developments in the field of history.

3. Leverage Freelance Job Boards

General freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, LinkedIn, and Fiverr often feature history writing gigs. These could range from blog posts and articles to technical writing for historical documentaries.

Follow these four steps to increase your chances of landing jobs:

1. Create a compelling profile that showcases your expertise in history.
2. Include samples of your best history writing work.
3. Be proactive in searching and applying for relevant jobs.
4. Start with smaller projects to build your reputation on the platform.

4. Approach Museums and Heritage Sites

Museums and historical sites are always in need of skilled writers to create various types of content. For example, this could include:

• Exhibit descriptions
• Educational pamphlets
• Newsletters
• Website content
• Grant proposals

Start by reaching out to local heritage sites or smaller museums. As you build your portfolio, you can aim for larger institutions. Remember to tailor your approach to each institution’s specific needs and interests.

5. Create a History Blog or Portfolio

Building your own history blog or online portfolio can showcase your expertise to potential clients and attract readers interested in historical topics. It could also provide you with an opportunity to monetize through ads, affiliate links, or sponsored posts.

When creating your blog, make sure to choose a specific niche or theme to stand out. Then, regularly publish well-researched, engaging content. This list of the best history blogs and websites is a great source of inspiration! 

Make sure to promote your blog on social media and history forums. If you’re having a hard time getting your blog noticed, consider guest posting on other history blogs to increase your visibility.

Remember, your blog is not only a platform for your writing – it demonstrates your passion for history and your ability to engage readers with historical content.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

The key to finding freelance history writing jobs is to start with what you are passionate about and then keep pushing forward. Each article you write, each connection you make, and each project you complete will bring you closer to establishing a sustainable career in this vast and varied niche.

If you love history but would like to improve your writing skills, we have a course that can help. Becoming A Freelance Writer will teach you how to write engaging blog posts and articles. After that, you can even gain experience with our publishing guarantee.

Take advantage of our free lessons and start learning today!

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