The Historical Origins of the Word ‘Freelance’

The Historical Origins of the Word ‘Freelance’ and Its Relevance in Modern Consulting and Ghostwriting

The term "freelance" has become synonymous with independence, self-employment, and contract work in today’s gig economy. However, its origins date back to a time when the word held a very different meaning. Understanding the historical roots of "freelance" sheds light on how this term evolved and its modern relevance, especially in consulting and ghostwriting, two fields where independent work is a cornerstone.

Historical Origins of ‘Freelance’

The word "freelance" first appeared in English literature in the early 19th century. It was popularised by Sir Walter Scott in his 1820 novel Ivanhoe, where he used the term "free-lance" to describe a medieval mercenary warrior who sold his sword to the highest bidder (Scott, 1820). In Scott's narrative, a "free lance" was quite literally a free soldier, unbound by loyalty to any particular lord or nation, but available to fight for anyone who could afford his services. The "lance" itself referred to the weapon used by knights, so a "free lance" was essentially a warrior for hire.

In the context of the Middle Ages, these mercenaries offered military services, a role crucial to kingdoms in times of war. Unlike knights sworn to a feudal lord, a freelancer’s allegiance was dictated by financial compensation rather than a pledge of loyalty (Parker, 2008). The concept was, in essence, the first professional expression of a non-exclusive contract, allowing individuals to work independently and selectively for various clients.

Over time, the term evolved from this specific military context to a broader application in the world of work. By the late 19th century, "freelance" was increasingly used to describe writers and artists who worked independently, offering their services to multiple clients rather than being employed by a single organisation (Freedman & Lynch, 2012). This shift laid the foundation for the word to eventually refer to self-employed professionals across various fields.

The Modern World of Freelancing: Consulting and Ghostwriting

In today’s economy, "freelance" no longer evokes images of mercenaries or medieval warriors but refers to a diverse group of independent professionals. From writers and designers to consultants and programmers, freelancers are characterised by their autonomy and flexibility, working on a project-by-project basis. The rise of the internet and digital platforms like Upwork and Fiverr has only accelerated this trend, making it easier than ever for individuals to connect with clients worldwide.

Freelance Consulting

Freelance consulting has emerged as a prominent field where specialists offer expert advice to businesses without committing to long-term employment. Independent consultants bring an objective perspective and specific expertise that companies can leverage on a temporary basis. Unlike traditional employees, freelance consultants can work with multiple clients simultaneously, much like the mercenaries of the past who served various lords (Katz & Krueger, 2019).

Today’s freelance consultants are often experts in fields such as management, IT, marketing, and finance. They may offer short-term project assistance, guide organisations through periods of transition, or provide strategic planning services. This mirrors the historical concept of the free-lance soldier, hired based on expertise and availability rather than loyalty. The ability to work across various sectors allows consultants to stay at the cutting edge of their industry and bring fresh ideas to each new client.

Freelance Ghostwriting

Now, let's move to our own sector. Ghostwriting is another area where freelance work thrives. Ghostwriters are hired to create written content for individuals or companies, but they typically remain anonymous, with the client receiving credit for the work. This can range from writing books and articles to producing speeches, blog posts, and even social media content. The anonymity of ghostwriting allows high-profile individuals to share ideas or maintain a presence without the time commitment required to produce the material themselves.

The freelance nature of ghostwriting aligns closely with the concept of offering specialised skills for hire. Just as the original freelancers wielded swords for their clients, ghostwriters wield our words, crafting narratives that serve the client's voice and objectives. This can be seen as a modern form of service, where one’s skills are sold to fulfill another’s needs, echoing the free-lance mercenary approach of offering services on a non-exclusive, project-by-project basis.

Freelancing as a Modern Expression of Independence

The journey from medieval mercenaries to modern independent workers highlights how the term "freelance" has retained its core principle of autonomy. Today, freelancers value the flexibility to choose their clients, projects, and working hours, embodying the same freedom that defined medieval mercenaries. The independence and adaptability that characterise freelance consultants and ghostwriters today align closely with this original spirit.

The freelance model also reflects broader changes in the workforce. As the demand for flexible, specialised expertise grows, companies increasingly look to freelancers to fill these roles. Whether in consulting or ghostwriting, freelancers offer unique advantages, including fresh perspectives, diverse industry experiences, and cost-effective, short-term solutions (MBO Partners, 2021).

So, while the context has shifted dramatically, the core concept of freelancing—providing skilled services on a flexible, non-exclusive basis—remains largely the same. From medieval mercenaries to modern consultants and ghostwriters, freelancers continue to embody a blend of expertise and independence. As the gig economy grows and technology continues to connect freelancers with clients, the legacy of the "free lance" lives on, highlighting the timeless value of autonomy and the ability to adapt to diverse needs.

References
Freedman, L., & Lynch, S. (2012). The Freelance Life: A Survival Guide. Harper Collins.
Katz, L. F., & Krueger, A. B. (2019). The Rise and Nature of Alternative Work Arrangements in the United States, 1995–2015. Journal of Labor Economics, 37(S1), S282–S305.
MBO Partners. (2021). The State of Independence in America: 2021 Report. MBO Partners.
Parker, R. (2008). A History of Mercenaries: The Mercenary Soldier’s Role through History. Pen & Sword Military.
Scott, W. (1820). Ivanhoe. Archibald Constable.