The district was created on 1 April 1987, when the five tambons, Pho Thong, Si Somdet, Mueang Plueai, Nong Yai, and Suan Chik were split off from Mueang Roi Et district.
The district came into existence on 1 April 1987, when these five tambons were detached from Mueang Roi Et district.