It was earlier a part of Old Jallandhar-Trigarta Empire. It was also known for its people as the great warriors and fighters. Carved out from the Kangra district in 1972, the district is closely associated with the Katoch dynasty. Even today, Army is the largest employer for Hamirpuris, who form large bulks of Dogra, Granadiers, JK, JAKRIF regiments as well as paramilitary, forces especially Assam Rifles. In addition to their repute for being brave and professional soldiers, they are well known for the hardiness characteristic of hill people thus earning the name Veer Bhumi for Hamirpur as rest of Himachal calls itself Dev Bhumi.