The earliest mention of the Tabasarans are found in 7th century Armenian sources referring to them as an independent people of Dagestan.

However, the state was eventually divided into two due to internal struggles and both were conquered by the Russians in the early 19th century.

The vast majority of Tabasarans profess Sunni Islam and belong to the Shafi'i school.

[9][10] Tabasaran traditional economy has been based on agriculture and animal husbandry, as the regions inhabited by the group have a mild and warm climate with abundant water sources.

Carpet weaving, leatherworking, woolen clothes, woodworking and beekeeping form the domestic industries.