How do I reference real people and events in my stories?

Hey guys. I don't know if I'm in the right place to ask this, but I'm a writer of short stories. I'm currently working on one that's going to be set in the 1920s, and I would really love to include historical figures and events but I'm terrified that I could be sued or something. I've looked online but I've been unable to find any concrete information on what's legal, what's not, and how to reference these figures in such a way that I would be in the clear. Any of you know of anything? I've heard of something called fair use, but I don't know how to go about it.<br><br>Thanks!<br><br>Edit: I'm sorry, I forgot to mention that my final goal is publishing. I know that if I were to self-publish I would be fine. I'm worried about the legality if I publish my story.