Pre-historic evidences have been discovered in Manipur our and they belong to Old Stone Age. Near Khangui, four caves have been discovered from where Stone Age articles like bone tools, stone tools, animal remains etc have been excavated out. Discovery of Machi is a landmark in archeology as it confirms strongly the existence of Stone Age people in Manipur. Excavations in Machi cave have led to the discovery of pebble chopper tool, which was used long back dating 30,000 BC. The state is filled with evidences that corroborate the existence of pre-historic humans as tools and other proofs of Neolithic age have also been found in Manipur.

During ancient times, Manipur was under the steady rule of royal dynasties. The state was ruled by a gifted ruler named Nongda Lairen Pakhangba. His efforts to develop Manipur are priceless and the state underwent radical improvement in culture during his reign. He was succeeded by his son who had a peaceful reign in Manipur and he too like his father improved the general cultural picture of the state. During his reign, the musical instrument Drum was invented in Manipur.

The medieval times saw the persistent rule of Meidingu dynasty. The state, like ancient period, kept up with its process of development as the rulers who came to the throne of Manipur prioritized development more than anything else. The dynasty had a great queen whose tales of bravery and still sung in Manipur. The queen of Meidingu Ningthou Khomba, Linthoingambi, made her name in history by resisting the attack of Tangkul tribe successfully. Her skill and courage defeated the tribal people and led to their captivity finally.

The history of Manipur was rewritten with the advent of Vaishanism in the state. During the reign of Meidingu Pamheiba, Vaishanism came into existence. Under his royal patronage the new culture evolved as he made Chaitanya schools in Manipur. During this era several battles were fought to extend the boundaries of Manipur. The present Tripura also came under Manipur.

During the Second World War, the land of Manipur was torn with many fierce battles. The battles were fought between Allied forces and Japanese troops. The Japanese troops could not enter Imphal as they were beaten back by the Allied forces. The post-independent era in Manipur is different from the rest of the state in India. The state was a princely state under British rule from 1891 to 1947. After 1947, the state was made into a democratic government and the Maharajas were made as executive head.