There are two major fields for people who wish to become historians. The first is working at a University. Typically this requires a Master's and Ph.D. in a specific field of history. Furthermore, you are expected to continuously conduct research in your field and produce pieces of writings as a result. These can include textbooks, peer-reviewed articles, academic books, monographs, and even popular history books (books for every day people). This is by far the largest occupation for people who desire to become historians. (I am currently a graduate student who is working his way towards this occupation).

The second is working in the sector of public history. Public history is the field of museums and other areas like this. It's an exciting field (depending what museums are close to you) yet the jobs are much fewer here, generally speaking.

There are also jobs working at Think Tanks, but these are by far even fewer than you can imagine.

So if you are hoping to become a historian, I recommend looking at one of these fields. If you have any more questions just let us know.

There is no such thing as a historian earning money just by learning history. Most high level historians earn their money by teaching at Universities, making appearances in documentaries, movies, and things like that. History teacher also falls under this umbrella. Writing/contributing to books is also another source of income. But it's not like you are paid by some higher person to just know historical facts. If it was possible, I would have just devoted my entire life to history.

By becoming a historian, do you mean that you want to study history at university? Or do you mean that you want to be a historian, in some shape or form, as a full time occupation?