Choose the historical event and period, such as the Civil War or the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. Historical fiction novels are different from regular fiction novels because they provide insight and depth into an event and portray prominent aspects about a given period of time.
Research the period in history that you chosen. By researching your chosen moment in history, you will be able to obtain the proper information to develop the qualities and personality of your historical fiction characters. You can find the proper research materials in books or through Internet sources. As you read through the sources, take notes on important points that will contribute to the development of the characters.
Examine your notes and research materials and analyze the prominent individuals associated with that time period or event. In creating historical fiction characters, it is necessary to be familiar with the behavior and actions of the people who lived during that time period.
Create an outline about the qualities and behavioral characteristics you would like your historical fiction characters to have. You can include aspects of the personalities of the individuals who lived during this time period, as well as including your own ideas. In your notes, also include the opinions you want your character to have regarding the period of time in which they live.