Freedom fighter is a relativistic term for those engaged in rebellion against an established government or regime that they consider to be oppressive. The terms "freedom" and "rebellion" are often confusing, as often both sides in armed conflict claim to represent the popular cause of "freedom". While external intervening parties, even oppressors, almost always claim to be "liberators", freedom fighters can become oppressors in the eyes of civilians.
Though the literal meaning of the words could include anyone who fights for the cause of freedom, common use is restricted to those who are actively involved in an armed rebellion, rather than those who campaign for freedom by peaceful non-disruptive means (though they may use the title in its literal sense).
Usage of the terms "terrorists" and "freedom fighters" is almost always controversial and reflective of opposing points of view. There is no universally agreed-upon definition for either term and many organizations that have been accused of committing acts of terrorism are regarded as being freedom fighters by others.
US President Ronald Reagan famously described the anti-Soviet insurgency in Afganistan as freedom fighters. Years later, some of these same fighters are now seen as Taliban enemies, often labelled as terrorists.
