Background, Geographic Area and Location: Madaripur was one of the sub-divisions of former Faridpur district. It was turned into district on the 1st March, 1984. It is not known how the name Madaripur came into existence. There is hearsay that in the long past a Sufi (saint) named Bodiuddin Shah Madar came to the present area of the district and set up hermitage inorder to preach Islam. It is believed that the district has been named after the name of the Sufi. The district is bounded on the north by Faridpur and Munshiganj districts, on the east by Shariatpur district, on the south by Gopalganj and Barisal districts and on the west by Faridpur and Gopalganj districts. The total area of the district is 1125.69 sq.km. (434.00 sq. miles) of which 108.08 sq.km. (41.73 sq.miles) is reverine. The district lies between 23º 00' and 23º 30' north latitudes and between 89º 56' and 90º 21' east longitudes.
Annual Average Temperature: Maximum 35.8°C, minimum 12.6°C. Total rainfall is 2105 mm.
Administration: Madaripur subdivision was established in 1854 under the district of Bakerganj. In 1873 it was separated from Bakerganj and annexed to Faridpur district. Madaripur subdivision was turned into a district in 1984. The district consists of 4 upazilas, 59 unions, 479 mauzas, 1062 villages, 3 paurashavas, 27 wards and 89 mahallas. The upazilas are Kalkini, Madaripur Sadar, Rajoir and Shibchar.
Historical Events: The most important historical event is the FARAIZI MOVEMENT led by Haji Shariatullah (1781-1840). During the War of Liberation many direct encounters were held between the freedom fighters and the Pakistan army. The freedom fighters of Madaripur captured 40 Pakistani soldiers including a Major and a Captain.
Archaeological Heritage and Relics: Aoliapur Neelkuti, Algi Kazibadi Mosque, Ram Mandir at Khalia, Senapati Dighi and the tomb of Shah Mazar.
Main Crops: Jute, paddy, peanut, onion, garlic, chilli, sugarcane, mustard, pulse and wheat.
Main Fruits: Mango, jackfruit, banana, coconut, guava, litchi, watermelon.
Main Exports: Jute, jute-goods, date molasses, sugarcane molasses, cotton, betel nut.