Yasothon, known as the "Rocket City" due to its famous annual rocket festival, has a history interwoven with the movements of noble Lao families and regional powers, particularly during the Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin eras. Human settlement in Yasothon dates back over two centuries, with archaeological evidence revealing historic communities near rice plains and forested areas like those in Maha Chana Chai and Kho Wang districts. Around 1771, Chao Phraya Wong, a noble fleeing unrest in Vientiane, arrived in Yasothon’s present area, known then as Ban Sing Tha, seeking a safe haven.

In 1814, during King Rama II’s reign, Yasothon was officially established as a town and given the name "Mueang Yotsunthon," with Chao Ratchawong Sing serving as its first ruler. Yasothon played a role in defending Siam from Lao rebels in the 19th century and was later included in the administrative restructuring efforts of King Rama V, becoming part of Ubon Ratchathani province until the 20th century.

In 1972, Yasothon became Thailand’s 71st province, gaining independence from Ubon Ratchathani. The name, once “Yotsunthon,” was officially modernized to Yasothon in 1957 for aesthetic reasons. Today, the province is known for its agriculture and cultural festivals, particularly the "Bun Bang Fai" rocket festival, reflecting the local customs and spirit of northeastern Thailand.