Kannur was a major trading center in ancient and medieval times, known for its spice trade.
It was under the rule of several dynasties such as the Kolathiris, Zamorins of Calicut, and later came under Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial powers.
The Arakkal Kingdom, based in Kannur, was the only Muslim royal family in Kerala.
The district played a key role in India's freedom movement, particularly during the Indian National Movement and the Malabar Rebellion.
Known for its contribution to communist and labor movements in Kerala.